Question: We are trying to determine if my wife is suffering from shingles or from an allergic reaction to medication. She frequently develops vasculitis to new medication and is unable to take NSAIDS, ibuprofen, or codeine and some antibiotics as a result. Recently she began a new ophthalmic beta blocker (Timolol) for glaucoma and shortly after broke out in a rash in the distal projection of the left T3 dermatome, approximately 10cm horizontal x 5cm vertical. There have been no actual blisters, but generalized pain in the area, and a pruritic rash with raised red papules. No other dermatome demonstrates this outbreak, but a few very small patches of these papules have appeared on the posterior left arm (mid triceps region) and anterior left lower extremity (mid tibial region). She has stopped all medications and supplements and the rash appears to be crusting and diminishing. Her opthalmologist requested she consult our family physician before she changes her medication but he is not available last week or this week. The total duration of these signs and sx have been about two weeks. We are just looking for an opinion (not a dx) and intend to follow up with our internist as soon as he is available.