A Case of Post-herpetic Itch Resolved With Gabapentin

Herpes zoster is a skin disease encountered commonly in dermatologic practice. While post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN) is a familiar side effect of this condition, it is not the only neuropathic symptom that can result. Post-herpetic itch (PHI) is less well known, but should be considered when evaluating a patient after an occurrence of zoster. Gabapentin has been successfully used to treat cutaneous pain and pruritus in a variety of conditions. The authors describe a case of PHI successfully treated with a course of gabapentin and propose that this agent be considered for use in patients who present with PHI. (J Drugs Dermatol. 2011;10[1]85-88.)