Definition

Noun: * A herpes virus that causes shingles. This is a specific virus, also known as varicella-zoster virus (VZV), which is responsible for two distinct diseases: chickenpox (varicella) upon initial infection and shingles (herpes zoster) upon reactivation later in life.

Usage

The term "herpes zoster virus" is a technical, medical term used to identify the specific pathogen. It is most commonly found in scientific, clinical, and public health contexts.

Examples

• The patient's symptoms were confirmed to be caused by the herpes zoster virus.
• Research into the herpes zoster virus has led to the development of effective vaccines.
• After causing chickenpox, the herpes zoster virus can remain dormant in nerve tissue for decades.

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used interchangeably with "varicella-zoster virus (VZV)" in modern medical literature, with VZV being the more precise taxonomic name.
• It is frequently discussed in the context of viral latency, reactivation, and neuropathic pain.

Variants and Related Words

• Varicella-zoster virus (VZV): The formal, scientific name for the herpes zoster virus.
• Herpesvirus: The broader family of viruses to which the herpes zoster virus belongs.
• Shingles virus: A common, non-technical synonym.

Synonyms

• Varicella-zoster virus (VZV)
• Shingles virus

Related Phrases

• Herpes zoster: The medical name for the disease shingles, which is caused by the herpes zoster virus.
• Postherpetic neuralgia: A common complication of herpes zoster, involving persistent nerve pain.

Noun

1. a herpes virus that causes shingles