Findings

Note the eosinophilic intranuclear inclusions within epidermal cells. The inclusions are surrounded by a clear halo and marginated nuclear chromatin.

Impression

Herpes zoster, intranuclear inclusions

Pathology Pointer

Replication of HZV's results in the formation of intranuclear inclusions and margination of chromatin. A clear halo around the inclusion results from tissue retraction due to dehydration (a technical artifact).

Preparation

Fixed, H & E stain

View

Light micrograph

Specimen

Skin

Image Credit

Katsumi M. Miyai, M.D., Ph.D
Department of Pathology
School of Medicine
University of California, San Diego