Systemic antivirals in herpesvirus infections

Abstract

Infections with herpesviruses are ubiquitous, affecting both immunocompetent and nonimmunocompetent hosts. Frequently asymptomatic, herpesvirus infections may also result in significant morbidity and mortality and substantially impact personal, social, and psychologic factors. With the increasing incidence of the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome and the growing use of bone marrow and solid organ transplantation, more severe manifestations of herpesvirus diseases are being seen. Recent advances in antiviral chemotherapy have dramatically improved the management of such patients.