Treatment of Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus in Immunocompromised Patients or Disseminated Herpes Zoster
Herpes zoster ophthalmicus (HZO) arising in the context of immunocompromised status or disseminated herpes zoster represents a distinct and higher-risk clinical scenario that requires a specific, protocol-driven treatment approach.
Clinical scenario
This protocol applies to HZO occurring in patients with immunocompromised status, or when HZO is part of disseminated herpes zoster. These conditions alter the risk profile and determine the appropriate treatment strategy.
Treatment approach
Intravenous antiviral therapy is the indicated approach in this setting. The complete regimen — including agent selection, sequencing, and management of refractory cases — is available in the full structured protocol.
References
In disseminated HZ or in immunocompromised patients, IV acyclovir is indicated; if the disease is resistant to acyclovir, IV foscarnet may be considered.
View source ↗