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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 19, 2026

Recurrent Herpetic Stromal Keratitis in Mice, a Model for Studying Human HSK

Recurrent Herpetic Stromal Keratitis in Mice, a Model for Studying Human HSK

Published on: December 18, 2012

Stop shingles in its tracks.

Pierre-Olivier Lang¹, Yasmine Hasso, Jean Pierre Michel

¹University Hospitals and Medical School of Geneva, Thonex-Geneva, Switzerland. pierre.o.lang@hcuge.ch

The Journal of Family Practice

|October 31, 2009

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Early antiviral treatment for herpes zoster (HZ) within 72 hours improves outcomes and reduces postherpetic neuralgia (PHN). Vaccination is recommended for adults 60 and older to prevent HZ and PHN.

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Area of Science:

Infectious Diseases
Immunology
Dermatology

Background:

Herpes zoster (HZ), commonly known as shingles, is a viral infection caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus.
Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) is a common and often debilitating complication of HZ, characterized by persistent nerve pain.
Current management strategies for HZ focus on antiviral therapy and pain management, with vaccination emerging as a key preventive measure.

Purpose of the Study:

To outline optimal management strategies for acute herpes zoster.
To emphasize the importance of timely antiviral intervention for reducing pain and preventing complications like PHN.
To highlight the role of herpes zoster vaccination in primary prevention.

Main Methods:

Review of clinical guidelines and evidence-based practices for herpes zoster management.
Analysis of treatment efficacy regarding the timing of antiviral initiation.
Assessment of herpes zoster vaccine effectiveness in reducing disease incidence and severity.

Main Results:

Initiating antiviral treatment within 72 hours of HZ outbreak significantly increases the likelihood of rapid pain resolution and reduces the incidence of PHN.
Herpes zoster vaccination is highly effective in reducing the overall incidence of HZ and the subsequent development of PHN in individuals aged 60 and older.
The use of tricyclic antidepressants and corticosteroids is not recommended during the acute phase of HZ.

Conclusions:

Prompt antiviral therapy is crucial for managing acute herpes zoster and mitigating the risk of PHN.
Herpes zoster vaccination represents a vital preventive strategy for older adults, significantly lowering disease burden.
Adherence to recommended treatment and prevention guidelines can improve patient outcomes and quality of life.