Defining a role for antiviral drugs in the treatment of persons with HHV-8 infection.

Human herpesvirus type 8 (HHV-8) is the most recently identified member of the human herpesvirus family and the aetiological agent of Kaposi's sarcoma, primary effusion lymphoma and multicentric Castleman's disease. While highly active antiretroviral therapy has led to impressive declines in the incidence of Kaposi's sarcoma, HHV-8- associated infections remain common and morbid across the globe. Although comprehensive clinical trials of therapy for HHV-8-associated infections are lacking, numerous studies have found current treatment modalities to be ineffective for many patients. A growing body of basic scientific and clinical work suggests that antiviral drugs may have a role in the treatment and (more significantly) in the prevention of HHV-8-associated infections. This review discusses current evidence for the efficacy of antivirals against HHV-8 and proposes novel uses for such medications in HHV-8 treatment.