Chapter 19
Diabetic Shingles
- By Namralata Singh, Patricia Reddy - 08 May 2026
- Issues on Health Science, Volume: 1, Pages: 193 - 196
Abstract/Preface
Shingles (Herpes zoster) increases with age and is higher in women with diabetes mellitus than in men; moreover, diabetes mellitus appears to elevate the risk of herpes zoster more significantly in elderly patients compared to younger individuals.” Herpes zoster (shingles) represents a significant clinical concern in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), who experience a higher disease burden compared to non-diabetic individuals. Infection in this population is associated with increased healthcare utilization, including more frequent outpatient visits, greater use of antiviral therapy, and a higher risk of hospitalization, along with prolonged periods of sick leave. Furthermore, patients with T2DM report a greater decline in quality of life following herpes zoster infection, with a slower recovery trajectory than non-diabetic individuals. Importantly, herpes zoster has also been linked to worsening glycemic control, further complicating diabetes management and outcomes.