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Herpetic keratitis. Proctor Lecture
Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science
|October 1, 1978
Summary
Significant advancements in treating herpes keratitis are available, including effective antiviral drugs and reliable animal models. Ongoing research into recurrent herpes biology promises improved therapies for this serious eye infection.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Virology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Herpes infection of the cornea (herpes keratitis) presents a serious clinical challenge.
- Recurrent herpes infections and associated stromal disease require effective management strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current state of knowledge and therapeutic options for herpes keratitis.
- To highlight advancements in understanding the biology of recurrent herpes infections.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on topical and systemic antiviral therapies.
- Discussion of the utility of animal models in predicting clinical efficacy and toxicity.
- Exploration of emerging research into the pathogenesis of recurrent herpes and stromal disease.
Main Results:
- Effective topical antiviral drugs are currently available for managing herpes keratitis.
- Reliable animal models exist for predicting drug efficacy and toxicity in humans.
- Systemic antiviral drugs are available, with potential for developing more potent and selective agents.
- Understanding of recurrent herpes biology is improving, paving the way for new treatments.
Conclusions:
- Substantial progress has been made in the clinical management of herpes keratitis.
- Future therapeutic strategies may focus on eradicating the source of viral reinfection and targeting stromal disease mechanisms.