Clinical Management of Herpes Simplex Virus Keratitis

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Virology
• Immunology

Background:

• Herpes simplex virus (HSV) keratitis is a primary cause of global blindness.
• HSV infections affect a significant portion of the population, with potential for severe ocular disease.
• Existing treatments for HSV keratitis do not address viral latency, leading to recurrences and increased risk of vision loss.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current knowledge on HSV keratitis, including its manifestations and host-virus interactions.
• To summarize existing antiviral immune responses to HSV infection.
• To highlight current and potential therapeutic strategies for HSV-related ocular diseases.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of published literature on HSV keratitis.
• Analysis of studies on HSV manifestations, immune responses, and clinical management.
• Synthesis of information on host-virus interactions and therapeutic targets.

Main Results:

• HSV causes a spectrum of ocular diseases, with HSV-2 linked to more frequent recurrences.
• Current antivirals and corticosteroids manage symptoms but do not eradicate latent HSV.
• There is a critical need for novel therapeutic approaches to combat HSV latency and prevent vision loss.

Conclusions:

• Understanding host-virus interactions is crucial for developing effective HSV therapies.
• Further research into novel antiviral targets is essential to address the limitations of current treatments for HSV keratitis.
• Developing strategies to eliminate latent HSV is key to preventing recurrent disease and preserving vision.