Herpesvirus infections (cytomegalovirus, herpes simplex virus, varicella-zoster virus). How to use ganciclovir (DHPG) and acyclovir.

Herpes viruses (HSV, CMV, VZ) are very frequent in AIDS patients and often exist in a chronic or progressive form. Clinically evident CMV retinitis occurs in approximately 10 per cent of AIDS patients but can be effectively treated with a new nucleoside analogue DHPG (Gancyclovir). Perianal ulcers, proctitis, and other clinical syndromes caused by HSV can be effectively treated with acyclovir (ACV) and HSV recurrences can be prevented by daily administration of ACV. Zoster in a young adult may be the first indication of immunodeficiency due to HIV. Because VZV is less susceptible to ACV than HSV, intravenous ACV or high-dose oral therapy is required to achieve inhibitory blood levels.