Which skin condition is characterized by blisters and a painful rash, typically caused by the varicella-zoster virus?

The condition characterized by blisters and a painful rash caused by the varicella-zoster virus is shingles. This virus, which is the same one responsible for chickenpox, can remain dormant in the body and reactivate later in life, leading to shingles. The symptoms typically include a painful, blistering rash that often appears on one side of the body, usually in a band or strip along a nerve pathway. The pain and discomfort can be quite severe and are often the first indicators of the condition, sometimes developing before the rash appears.

Shingles is distinct from other skin conditions, such as psoriasis, which involves red, scaly patches and is not caused by a viral infection, or acne, which is associated with blocked hair follicles and bacteria, rather than viral reactivation. Eczema, often resulting from allergic reactions or irritants, presents with itchy, inflamed skin but does not involve the blistering or viral aspect of shingles. Thus, shingles is specifically linked to the varicella-zoster virus, making it the correct answer for this question.