Herpes

Question 1

Which are the 2 most important herpes viruses?

Answer 1

1) Herpes simplex ( 1&2) Virus
2) Varicella- Zoster virus

Question 2

Herpes simplex 1

Answer 2

Mouth

Question 3

Herpes simplex 2

Answer 3

2 genitals/ male and female

Question 4

Chickenpox- Varicella zoster

Answer 4

• causes chickenpox
• more severe in adolescents and adults than children
• antiviral treatment which is started within 24 hrs of onset rash may reduce severity and duration of symptoms
• those at risk of complications may need varicella- zoster immunoglobulin prophylaxis

Question 5

Shingles

Answer 5

Herpes zoster

• systemic antiviral treatment can reduce the severity of duration of pain
• start treatment within 72 hrs of onset of rash and continue for 7-10 days
• immunocompromised and patients at high risk should be treated with parenteral antiviral drug
• chronic pain which persists after rash has healed needs specific management - postherpetic neuralgia

Question 6

How do we treat herpes

Answer 6

Aciclovir - treatment of choice against HSV but doesn’t eradicate them

Famiciclovir- prodrug of penciclovir, used in herpes zoster and genital herpes

Valciclovir - Easter of civlovir, used in herpes zoster and simple, also cytomegalovrius disease after organ transplant