What is a common presentation shared by both simplex and zoster on peristomal skin?

• A. Vesicles
• B. Scaly plaques
• C. Pustules with crusting only
• D. Ulcerations with purulent discharge

Answer: (A)

Vesicular lesions are a hallmark of herpes infections, including both simplex and zoster. Both viruses produce small fluid-filled blisters that often appear in grouped clusters on an erythematous base, and these lesions can involve peristomal skin. As the vesicles rupture, they crust, which is a typical progression you may see around a stoma when viral activity occurs. This vesicular pattern helps distinguish viral infections from other peristomal skin issues.

Scaly plaques point more toward dermatitis or psoriasis, pustules with crusting suggest impetigo or bacterial infection, and ulcerations with purulent discharge indicate a deeper or bacterial/process-driven breakdown. Thus the presence of vesicles aligns best with herpes simplex or herpes zoster involvement of peristomal skin.