Despite significant knowledge of the molecular biology and genetics of adenovirus, no specific
antiviral agent has been developed for use in
adenovirus infections. This contrasts with the situation in herpes simplex virus (HSV) and human immunodeficiency virus (
HIV) infections, in which
antiviral agents target specific
enzymes.
Antiviral agents active against HSV and
interferons have been used in the treatment of ocular
adenovirus infections with limited effect. Some newer
nucleoside analogues have inhibitory activity against adenovirus in vitro and their effect is being assessed in newly developed animal models. Live
vaccines have been used in both the United States and Canada to protect military recruits against adenovirus-induced respiratory disease. However, the inoculating strains are not normally associated with epidemic
keratoconjunctivitis (EKC). There is a low prevalence of antibody against strains of adenovirus inducing EKC. Until such time as specific
antiviral agents against adenovirus are developed, the mainstays of
therapy will remain topical
antibiotics to eliminate any secondary
bacterial infection and topical
steroids to suppress the immune response against adenovirus or adenovirus-infected cells. Neither form of treatment is adenovirus specific.