Retrospective cross-sectional study estimates herpes zoster prevalence in adults, indicating significant risk factors for complications.
The study aimed to determine the estimated prevalence of herpes zoster (HZ) infection in the adult population in Türkiye and the rates of HZ-associated complications and risk factors. This retrospective, multicenter (n=11), cross-sectional study was conducted between January 2016 and January 2022 and included all patients aged ≥18 years diagnosed with shingles following screening based on ICD-10 codes. The prevalence of HZ infection was calculated; rates of HZ-related complications (recurrence, hospitalization, postherpetic neuralgia [PHN]) and associated risk factors were determined. A total of 6114 HZ patients were included; the estimated 5-year HZ prevalence in Turkiye was 908.7 per 100,000 population. Of the patients, 851 (14.2%) were immunocompromised, 366 (6%) were hospitalized due to HZ, 284 (8.9%) experienced PHN, 97 (3.2%) experienced recurrence of the patients. Risk factors for PHN were older age (≥50 years [OR=3.19; p<0.001)], and trigeminal dermatome involvement (OR=2.45; p=0.006). Antiviral use was associated with reduced PHN risk (OR=0.16; p<0.001). Our multicenter cross-sectional study revealed the high burden of HZ in Türkiye and highlighted the potential for increasing prevalence due to risk factors including aging and comorbidities.
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