Microbiology 21 - Antivirals

Question 1

What is the mechanism of action of acyclovir?

Answer 1

Guanosine analogue that prevents elongation of DNA

Question 2

Which viruses is acyclovir particularly useful for?

Answer 2

VZV

HSV 1 + 2

Question 3

Which antiviral is used in HSV encephalitis?

Answer 3

High dose IV acyclovir

Question 4

What is ganciclovir used for?

Answer 4

Pretty much only for treatment of CMV in the imunocompromised and neonates

Question 5

What is the main side effect of ganciclovir?

Answer 5

Bone marrow toxicity

Question 6

When is foscarnet used?

Answer 6

To treat CMV in patients where ganciclovir is contra-indicated (eg neutropaenic patients)

Question 7

Which antiviral is most useful for treating RSV (bronchiolitis in children)?

Answer 7

Ribavarin - but there is a lack of good evidence for its efficacy

Question 8

What drug is given to infant groups at high risk of RSV?

Answer 8

Palivizumab

Question 9

Which antiviral is most useful for treating haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis in covid?

Answer 9

Anakinra (IL-1 receptor agonist)

Question 10

What is the best treatment for paediatric adenovirus infection?

Answer 10

Combination of cidofovir and IV Ig

Question 11

What treatment can clear chronic hep B in 3-7% of patients?

Answer 11

48 week course of pergolated interferon gamma