Bacterial enzyme in viral infections: a new concept. The possible role of hyaluronidase in herpes simplex virus keratitis.

Data are presented to suggest that hyaluronidase can act as a virus spread factor in herpes simplex eye infection by both degrading tissue mucopolysaccharide and interfering with the antiviral effects of the interferon system. Most of herpes simplex eye infections are accompanied by contamination by various bacterial species capable of hyaluronidase production. Based on these data, a hypothetical model for the involvement of bacterial hyaluronidase in controlling the clinical course of ocular herpes simplex infection is suggested. The model can apply to other viral infections accompanied by bacterial contaminations, and provides a new therapeutic approach to such cases.