HSK Forum

Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) is the most common cause of corneal blindness and the most common cause of blindness resulting from infection in the United States and developing countries.

Challenges:

• 20-25% with ocular HSV develop Herpes Stromal Keratitis (HSK)
• Recurrence rate of ocular HSV: 23-33% within 2 years

Complications:

• corneal scarring
• progressive neurotrophic keratopathy
• concomitant steroid toxicity
• vision loss
• secondary glaucoma
• Patient discomfort, frustration, financial loss

Current Interventions:

Acyclovir, Famvir & Valacyclovir maintenance:

• Recurrence rates remain high
• Cost issues
• Ability of acyclovir to prevent stromal disease controversial

Topical corticosteroids + Antivirals

• reduce persistence and progression
• topical steroid complications legendary

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