Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Headache is one of the most frequent reasons for medical consultation. The SUNCT type is classified as a primary trigeminal-autonomic headache and should be considered in cases of short-lasting, hemifacial pain associated with autonomic dysfunction. Additionally, in the approach to this disease, secondary causes that facilitate its onset must be ruled out. CASE REPORT: We describe a case of a new-onset SUNCT-type headache in which involvement of the first branch of the trigeminal nerve due to herpes zoster virus infection was documented six days after the onset of pain. CONCLUSION: Trigeminal autonomic headaches are usually primary; yet, multiple conditions have been described that are associated with SUNCT-type headaches and have a secondary etiology. Among these, herpes zoster virus infection should be considered at the onset of episodes consistent with SUNCT-type headache unresponsive to medical treatment.