A 72-year-old female presents with complaints of a rash near the gluteal fold on the right side
A 72-year-old female presents with complaints of a rash near the gluteal fold on the right side. It is a painful vesicular rash, onset approximately 2 days ago, with no fever but occasional burning and sensitivity at the site. She has tried triple antibiotic ointment without relief. She has been widowed for 10 years and has a “steady boyfriend” whom she has dated for 6 months and recently became sexually active with. What other questions would you like to ask your patient? What are your differential diagnoses and final diagnosis? How would you discuss this diagnosis with your older patient?