Herpes zoster oticus: treatment with intravenous acyclovir.

Abstract

Herpes zoster oticus generally has a poor prognosis, leaving many patients with permanent facial nerve dysfunction. This preliminary report describes results in seven patients treated for zoster; all were given intravenous acyclovir. Patients were infused with 10 mg/kg every 8 hours over a 7-day hospitalization period. Five of the seven patients showed some return of facial function at the time of discharge. At follow-up, 4 patients had achieved a House grade I result, 1 patient a grade II, and 2 patients a grade III. Reasons for the differences in final results are discussed, along with a recommended regimen for treatment.

• Authors: J R Dickins, J T Smith, S S Graham
• Journal: The Laryngoscope (Laryngoscope) Vol. 98 Issue 7 Pg. 776-9 (Jul 1988) ISSN: 0023-852X [Print] United States
• PMID: 3386386 (Publication Type: Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Acyclovir

Topics

• Acyclovir (administration & dosage, adverse effects)
• Administration, Oral
• Adolescent
• Adult
• Aged
• Aged, 80 and over
• Cranial Nerve Diseases (complications, drug therapy)
• Facial Paralysis (etiology)
• Female
• Hearing Loss (etiology)
• Herpes Zoster (complications, drug therapy)
• Humans
• Injections, Intravenous
• Male
• Middle Aged