TO ASSESS THE RECURRENCE RATE OF HERPES GENITALIS IN YOUNG MALE SUFFERERS, WHO ARE TREATED WITH ACYCLOVIR

Abstract

Background & Method: The aim of this study is to assess the recurrence rate of herpes genitalis in young male sufferers, who are treated with acyclovir. Eligible participants were randomized in two groups group A (Cases – Given continuous oral zinc supplementation (tab. Zinc acetate50 mg once daily). Each episode of herpes genitalis was treated with 5-7 days course of acyclovir. Acyclovir was given in the dose of 400 mg tds.) and group B (Controls - Given only acyclovir during episodes). Tzanck smear was done in each patient and was assessed by one of the consultant throughout the study. Routine investigations and HIV, HbSAg, VDRL were mandatory.

Result: In group A, when the number of episodes during the last year was compared with the number of episodes during the study, a reduction in number was observed but this difference was non-significant. In group B also the mean number of episodes has also decreased slightly which is statistically non-significant.

Conclusion: Regular treatment with systemic zinc acetate in dose of 50 mg per day in patients with recurrent Herpes genitalis along with episodic treatment with antiviral (Acylovir) able to reduce recurrence rates by 15% and duration by 20 % after one year.

Keywords: recurrence, herpes, genitalis & acyclovir.

Study Designed: prospective randomized case control study.