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Updated: Aug 15, 2026

A Primary Neuron Culture System for the Study of Herpes Simplex Virus Latency and Reactivation
Published on: April 2, 2012
Use of oral valaciclovir in a 12-year-old boy with herpes simplex encephalitis
P K Chan1, P C Chow, J S Peiris
1Department of Microbiology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, Hong Kong.
Abstract:
We report on a 12-year-old boy with herpes simplex encephalitis, in whom a severe localised skin reaction developed following the infusion of intravenous acyclovir. Oral valaciclovir was given as continuation therapy to complete the 3-week course of antiviral treatment and resulted in complete recovery without side effects. This report illustrates the advantage of using the polymerase chain reaction to diagnose herpes simplex encephalitis and the potential use of newer antiviral agents, such as valaciclovir, as continuation therapy in the management of the infection. The higher oral bioavailability of newer antiviral agents allows part of the extended treatment period of patients with herpes simplex encephalitis to be carried out as an ambulatory oral regimen.
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Acute Pharyngitis
Acute pharyngitis is the inflammation of the back of the throat (pharynx), commonly resulting in a sore throat. It is a frequently encountered condition that prompts individuals to seek medical advice.
Classification
Acute pharyngitis can be categorized based on its underlying cause:
Herpes
Arboviral Encephalitis
Genital Herpes
Cryptococcal Meningitis
Antiviral Nucleoside Inhibitors

