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Herpes zoster — NDEB AFK MCQ

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ModerateOral PathologyHerpes zosterNDEB AFK

A 71-year-old has unilateral burning pain followed by vesicles and ulcers on the left hard palate and attached gingiva, not crossing the midline. The patient had chickenpox as a child. What is the most likely diagnosis?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: C — Herpes zoster involving trigeminal branch

Unilateral vesicles and ulcers in a trigeminal distribution that do not cross the midline are typical of herpes zoster reactivation. Primary herpetic gingivostomatitis is usually more diffuse and often occurs in younger patients. The pearl is that early antiviral therapy is most useful when started promptly and ophthalmic symptoms require urgent assessment.

Reference: Canadian oral medicine reference texts; NDEB KSAs 2024