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Recurrence of virus-related keratitis persists despite prophylactic treatment
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SAN FRANCISCO — Significant variation in treatment and prophylaxis management was seen among clinicians treating keratitis associated with herpes simplex virus and herpes zoster virus, according to a study.
A retrospective review that documented demographics, treatment, prophylaxis and recurrence included 193 eyes of 188 patients who presented with HSV or HZV keratitis. Of patients who were on a prophylactic regimen, there were no differences seen between groups regarding the rate of recurrence; however, for patients not on such a regimen, patients with HSV had more recurrences, Halah M. Ali, MBBS, MSc, said at the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery meeting.
Halah M. Ali
"Unsurprisingly, we found that zoster patients were older and more likely to have raised IOP and secondary uveitis," Ali said.
Because recurrences still occur despite prophylaxis, questions arise whether this is due to antiviral resistance or if there is a need for a stronger prophylaxis administration, Ali said.
"This calls for prospective, randomized trials," Ali said. Furthermore, because treatment and prophylaxis regimens vary, there is a need for nationally and internationally agreed-upon management protocols, she said.
Disclosure: Ali has no relevant financial disclosures.