Dr. Richard E. Gans
I was first diagnosed with Herpes Simplex by the Swagel Wootton Eye Center in Nov. of 1995. Unfortunately I am now being treated for a re-occurance of the same problem. I now have an appointment with Dr. Edward Lawrence Shaw of the Shaw Eye Center here in Phoenix. I have lost considerable eye sight and have a permanent scar over the cornea of my right eye.
I was extremely pleased to find your "Herpes Simplex" article on the Internet.
It was most helpful and confirmed most things that my doctor at Swagel Wooton
had said. The one difference was that you referred to anti-viral medicines
and they claimed that there is no treatment available to control occasional
flare-ups. I would be most thankful if you could provide me with the
information.
1) What anti-viral medicines are available?
2) What are my chances of getting this in my other eye?
3) What things can I do to minimize flare-ups? Swagel Wooton said that
all though it has never been proven there is the feeling that it can
can be prompted by stress, wind and ultra violet rays. Do you agree
with this opinion?
I am extremely concerned about my problem and would appreciate receiving your recommendation. Thanks.
Answered by Richard E. Gans, M. D. (reg@ofcn.org)
Herpes simplex infections within the eye are complex and difficult problems. As noted in your question, I have posted previous descriptions of the infection within this forum.
With regard to your specific questions. . .
I did not intend to give the impression that there are no medications to treat flare-ups of the disease. Certainly, there are several. My point was that there is no medication currently available that can eradicate the virus from your system, completely.
1. There are a variety of anti-viral medications available to treat H. simplex. The most commonly used eyedrop currently, is one called trifluridine (trade name: Viroptic). Other topical medications include: idoxuridine (trade name: Herplex) and vidarabine (trade name: Vira-A). Occasionally, systemic medications are used to treat ocular conditions. Zovirax (Acyclovir) is a medication of this type.
2. Ocular Herpes is typically a monocular problem, but can rarely involve both eyes.
3. In general, it is thought that anything that decreases your body's ability to fight off infection, that is, anything that decreases the effectiveness of your immune system, can bring on a recurrence of Herpes simplex.
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Copyright, 1996. Richard E. Gans, M. D. All rights reserved.
Richard E. Gans, M. D.
Diplomate, American Board of Ophthalmology
Medical Director, The Health and Wellness Center
OFCN Primary Sysop, The Eye Clinic
Email: reg@ofcn.org
WWW: http://www.ofcn.org:80/about.ofcn/whois/reg/
Mail: 26900 Cedar Road Suite #108
Beachwood, OH USA 44122-1148
NOTICE: OFCN is not engaged in the rendering of professional medical services. The information contained on this system or any other OFCN system should not supplant individual professional consultation. It is offered exclusively as a community education service. Advice on individual problems must be obtained directly from a professional.
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