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Herpes zoster virus infection.
1Mayo Clinic Medical School, Jacksonville, Florida, USA. tliesegang@mayo.edu
Current Opinion in Ophthalmology
|November 4, 2004
Summary
Varicella zoster virus (VZV) infections, particularly ocular disease (HZO), present complex challenges. While antivirals and vaccines improve outcomes, further research is needed for complete VZV complication management.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Virology
- Immunology
Background:
- Varicella zoster virus (VZV) infection poses varied risks across age groups and immune statuses.
- Understanding VZV's pathophysiology is crucial for managing its diverse clinical manifestations, especially ocular disease.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current knowledge on VZV virology, pathophysiology, and treatment, focusing on ocular manifestations.
- To highlight recent findings regarding risk factors, disease patterns, and therapeutic strategies for VZV-related ocular conditions.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on VZV, herpes zoster ophthalmicus (HZO), and related ocular diseases.
- Analysis of current treatment guidelines and emerging research on antiviral and vaccine efficacy.
Main Results:
- VZV persistence on the cornea post-HZO and its role in idiopathic uveitis are noted.
- Retinal disease patterns correlate with immune status; early antiviral treatment improves quality of life but not postherpetic neuralgia.
- Famvir offers optimal dosing; the VZV vaccine is effective but may require regimen adjustments.
Conclusions:
- Despite advances in antivirals and vaccination, VZV disease complications persist and require further research.
- Current therapies mitigate but do not eliminate VZV complications.
- Unpredictable VZV disease patterns necessitate ongoing investigation, even in vaccinated populations.