Cost-consequence models for varicella-zoster virus infections

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Health Economics
• Pharmacoeconomics

Background:

• Varicella-zoster virus (VZV) causes chickenpox and shingles, impacting immunocompetent individuals.
• Acyclovir is a primary treatment, but its cost-effectiveness requires detailed analysis.
• Understanding disease impact on quality of life and productivity is crucial for treatment decisions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop cost-consequence models for VZV infections treated with acyclovir.
• To evaluate the economic and health-related impacts of chickenpox and shingles.
• To compare treatment versus no treatment scenarios for VZV infections.

Main Methods:

• Three cost-consequence models were created for VZV infections: adult and childhood chickenpox, and adult herpes zoster.
• Models incorporated direct medical costs, indirect costs, and productivity losses.
• Quality-adjusted life-days were used to quantify symptom impact (pain, rash, itching) and quality of life.

Main Results:

• The models provide a framework for assessing acyclovir's value in VZV management.
• Analysis includes variations in disease severity and impact across different patient groups (children, adults, military).
• Future iterations should incorporate newer antivirals like valacyclovir and famciclovir.

Conclusions:

• Cost-consequence modeling is essential for understanding the full impact of VZV treatments.
• The models highlight the importance of considering both economic and quality of life factors.
• Further research should expand models to include emerging antiviral therapies for VZV.