New options in herpes management.
Herpesviruses in the alpha group--HSV-1, HSV-2, and VZV (i.e., HSV-3)--are ubiquitous in American society. HSV-1 is associated primarily with herpes labialis, while HSV-2 is involved in about 70% of cases of genital herpes. Varicellazoster virus causes chickenpox in unvaccinated children and others, and latent virus produces shingles later in life. Since many patients with HSV-1 and HSV-2 infections are asymptomatic, testing is important in determining presence of the viruses. Several antiviral agents effective against HSV have been marketed. While the infection cannot be cured, the available medications are effective for reducing the duration of outbreaks, recurrences, and possibly viral transmission.
Knodel
Leroy
L
University of Texas Health Sciences Center at San Antonio, USA.
Goad
Jeffery
J
D018138:Alphaherpesvirinae; D000998:Antiviral Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006566:Herpesviridae Infections / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000517:prevention & control; D018259:Herpesvirus 1, Human / Q000276:immunology; D018258:Herpesvirus 2, Human / Q000276:immunology; D014645:Herpesvirus 3, Human / Q000276:immunology; D022283:Herpesvirus Vaccines; D006801:Humans
D000998:Antiviral Agents; D022283:Herpesvirus Vaccines