A survey on the clinical practice of herpes zoster and postherpetic neuralgia management by Korean medicine doctors: towards the development of Korean medicine clinical practice guidelines.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Herpes zoster (HZ) is a painful viral disease caused by varicella-zoster virus reactivation. Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), characterized by severe pain, is its most frequent complication. Due to the limitations of western medicine (WM) in managing these conditions, there is increasing demand for Korean medicine (KM). However, Korean medicine clinical practice guidelines (KM-CPGs) for HZ and PHN are not yet established. This study investigates current clinical practices and perceptions of Korean medicine doctors (KMDs) regarding HZ and PHN to facilitate KM-CPGs development.

Methods

An online survey was conducted from May 6 to May 15, 2024. Participants were notified via short message services and email. The survey, based on literature reviews, expert consultations,

SUBMITTER: Kim B 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12828924 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature