RECALCITRANT HERPETIC GENITAL ULCERS TREATED WITH IMIQUIMOD IN ASSOCIATION WITH VALACYCLOVIR
Abstract
The herpes simplex virus is a common cause of genital ulcers. In the immunocompromised, it may have an atypical presentation, with exuberant lesions, frequently resulting in resistance to the mainstream therapeutic options, and a consequent prolonged course.
A 25-year-old male with a previous history of common variable immunodeficiency, presented with herpetic extensive genital ulcerations on the inguinoscrotal region. Despite a long period of valacyclovir therapy, the patient remained symptomatic. We decided to add topical 5% imiquimod as an adjunctive therapy, and observed a completed resolution of the ulcerations.
Imiquimod, working as a local immunomodulator, stimulates the anti-viral immunologic response. Therefore, it is an alternative in recalcitrant herpetic lesions, especially in the setting of immunosuppression.
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