Some people who have
shingles get a blistery rash that spreads over a large
portion of the body (disseminated zoster).
Disseminated zoster can affect the heart, lungs, liver, pancreas,
joints, and intestinal tract. Infrequently, infection can also spread to nerves
that control movement, which may cause temporary weakness. In very rare cases,
disseminated zoster may affect the nerve that supplies the bladder, causing
paralysis of the bladder and problems with urination.
In rare cases, disseminated zoster can spread to the tissues or
membranes of the brain and spinal cord and cause inflammation there (meningitis or
encephalitis). This can be dangerous.
Most people who have shingles don't get disseminated zoster. People
who have a
weakened immune system have a greater chance of
getting this condition.
