Which statement about herpes zoster and herpes simplex infections on peristomal skin is accurate?

• A. Zoster cannot occur on peristomal skin
• B. Simplex and zoster are bacterial infections
• C. Both are viral diseases
• D. They require surgical management

Answer: (C)

Both herpes zoster and herpes simplex infections are viral illnesses, and that is why the accurate statement is that they are viral diseases. Herpes zoster comes from reactivation of varicella-zoster virus and can affect any skin area, including the peristomal skin, where it typically presents as a painful vesicular eruption in a band-like pattern. Herpes simplex, caused by HSV-1 or HSV-2, also produces grouped vesicles on an erythematous base and can involve peristomal skin, especially in people with prior oral/genital herpes or in situations of skin irritation around the ostomy site. Management centers on antiviral therapy and optimal skin care rather than surgery. Early antiviral treatment can shorten illness and reduce pain, and avoiding scratching helps prevent secondary infection. This distinguishes them from bacterial infections or conditions that require surgical intervention, and it highlights why the viral nature is the correct takeaway for this scenario.