viral infections and orofacial tissue Flashcards
what is a virus?
obligate parasite that required a host cell for replication and survival
what is the host response to a virus in terms of antibody?
fourfold rise in specific antibody titres ove 4 weeks can be detected from serum samples
why is anti-viral therapy undesirable?
drug designs is limited by the fact that viruses use host DNA to manufacture more of themselves, so most drugs are toxic to viruses AND the host cells
what are some examples of antiviral drugs?
aciclovir, penciclovir
overall, are antiviral drugs safe?
yes! they have very few side effects or drug interactions
what is the management of herpes simplex virus?
- reassurance and explanation (gets better wihtout much intervention
- symptomatic relief including very good oral hygiene
- keep hydrated
- take paracetamol for the pyrexia (high temp)
- SLS free toothpaste and mouthwashes (sodium lauryl sulphate is an irritant substance if you have any oral mucosal inflammatory condition)
- bland soft diet
- no point giving antiviral drugs unless you pick up extremely early Or the pt is immunocompromised
what might re-activate HSV?
UV light exposure (sunny days)
wind
stress
steroids
menstruation
fever
surgery
what are the symptoms of herpes labialis (cold sores)
early symptoms of itching and tingling
rapidly ulcerate
healing occurs 7-10 days later
what is Asymptomatic viral shedding?
infected individuals, who may not yet be experiencing any of the viral symptoms, are shedding viral particles while they talk
how is varicella zoster virus spread?
by droplets or vesicle fluid
what is meant by prodrome
few hours to 2 days start to feel unwell, headache
what can reactivate Varicella zoster virus?
malignanyc, concomitant illnesses, sterss, surgery, local or general trauma
