Low-Dose Acyclovir Reduces Herpes Viruses After Stem Cell Transplant
Author Information
Author(s): Muacevic Alexander, Adler John R, Ursu Sorana G, Alhousani Mohammad M, Patrus Gina, Fazal Salman
Primary Institution: Allegheny Health Network Cancer Institute
Hypothesis
This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a lower dose of acyclovir in preventing HSV and VZV reactivation in alloSCT recipients.
Conclusion
Oral acyclovir 400 mg taken twice daily for prophylaxis in alloSCT recipients is both effective and well-tolerated.
Supporting Evidence
- HSV reactivation occurred in 10 out of 246 patients (4%) and none had VZV reactivation.
- The median time to HSV reactivation was 100 days (range 10-1400).
- No patient had acyclovir-related adverse events.
- Hospitalization related to HSV reactivation occurred in four of the 10 affected patients (40%).
Takeaway
Giving a lower dose of acyclovir helps prevent certain viruses from coming back in patients who had a stem cell transplant, and it's safe to use.
Methodology
A retrospective chart review was conducted for patients who underwent alloSCT, analyzing the incidence of HSV and VZV reactivation.
Potential Biases
Potential missing documentation of suspected reactivations could lead to underreporting.
Limitations
The study's retrospective design may introduce biases, and only confirmed reactivations were included.
Participant Demographics
The majority of patients were male with a median age of 60 years, primarily diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.006
Statistical Significance
p=0.006
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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