Article information
Abstract
Genital herpes is a chronic infection characterized by periodic reactivation. It can produce symptomatic disease in the host although asymptomatic viral excretion can also occur. It is currently the main cause of genital ulceration and an important public health problem that has substantial clinical, psychological, and economic repercussions. This review analyzes the currently available therapeutic options and regimens, which are based mainly on systemic use of antiviral agents such as aciclovir, valacyclovir, and famciclovir. In addition, special emphasis is placed on the prevention and management of this infection in specific situations, such as pregnant, pediatric, and immunocompromised patients.
Key words:
genital herpes
sexually transmitted disease
aciclovir
valac
Resumen
El herpes genital es una infección crónica que se caracteriza por una reactivación periódica, con capacidad tanto de producir una enfermedad sintomática en el huésped como de excreción viral asintomática. Hoy en día constituye la primera causa de ulceración genital y representa un importante problema de salud pública, con considerables repercusiones clínicas, psicológicas y económicas.
Se revisan y actualizan las distintas opciones y pautas terapéuticas disponibles en la actualidad, basadas fundamentalmente en el empleo por vía sistémica de los fármacos antivirales aciclovir, valaciclovir y famciclovir. Por otro lado, se pone especial énfasis en la prevención y el manejo de esta infección en situaciones particulares, como en embarazadas, en niños, o en pacientes inmunodeprimidos.
Palabras clave:
herpes genital
enfermedades de transmisión sexual
aciclovir
valaciclovir
famciclovir
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