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Updated: Mar 3, 2026
08:31
Porcine Corneal Tissue Explant to Study the Efficacy of Herpes Simplex Virus-1 Antivirals
Published on: September 20, 2021
3.9K
Neonatal Herpes Simplex Viral Infections and Acyclovir: An Update
Summary
Neonatal herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections are serious, requiring optimized treatment and prevention. Parenteral acyclovir is key, but high mortality persists, highlighting the need for improved care strategies.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal Medicine
- Virology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Neonatal herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections present significant morbidity and mortality risks.
- Effective management is crucial for improving neonate care and outcomes.
- Current strategies focus on transmission reduction, acute infection treatment, and mitigating long-term complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and optimize treatment and prevention strategies for neonatal HSV infections.
- To discuss the management of different HSV infection categories in neonates.
- To evaluate the role of acyclovir in treating and preventing neonatal HSV sequelae.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on neonatal HSV management.
- Analysis of treatment protocols, including parenteral and oral acyclovir.
- Discussion of factors influencing transmission, such as delivery route and maternal suppressive therapy.
Main Results:
- Neonatal HSV infections are categorized as localized (skin, eyes, mouth), central nervous system, or disseminated.
- Parenteral acyclovir is the primary treatment, with dosage and duration varying by severity and presentation.
- Oral acyclovir may be used for suppressive therapy to reduce neurodevelopmental issues and future outbreaks.
Conclusions:
- Despite treatment with acyclovir, mortality rates for neonatal HSV remain high.
- Optimizing acyclovir dosage, duration, and suppressive therapy is essential.
- Further research and improved strategies are needed to reduce the impact of neonatal HSV infections.
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