Joanne is in the office today because of a rash that is occurring down one side of her back and thigh. She is obviously in great pain and the rash is beginning to blister in places. Which of the following questions would help the provider make a diagnosis in this case?
A) "How many people live in your home?"
B) "Have you noticed any similar symptoms in other family members?"
C) "Did you have chickenpox when you were a child?"
D) "Have you had any sexual contact in the last 6 months?"
E) "How long has it been since you had a tetanus shot?"

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The description of a rash occurring down one side of the body and beginning to blister is indicative of shingles, which is caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. Asking if Joanne had chickenpox in her childhood can help confirm a diagnosis of shingles, as the virus remains dormant in the body and can reactivate later in life to cause shingles.

Joanne Is in the Office Today Because of a Rash