Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus (HZO)
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Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus (HZO)

Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus (HZO) forms part of herpes zoster (HZ) and concerns itself with the ophthalmic branch of the 5th cranial nerve. At Protheragen, we provide full diagnostic and therapeutic development services for HZO. Our skilled scientists put into practice modern technology and employ exacting scientific approaches to advance understanding and therapeutics development of conditions.

Introduction to Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus (HZO)

Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus (HZO), which may lead to serious vision problems, results from the reactivation of Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV) with a clinical presentation in the ophthalmic branch of the trigeminal nerve (fifth cranial nerve). HZO presents with painful vesicular rash in the areas supplied by the ophthalmic nerve and may also have associated damage to the eye structures like the conjunctiva, cornea, and intraocular tissues like the uvea. HZO represents approximately 4%-20% of all cases of herpes zoster, and its infection is exacerbated in older ages and in those who have weakened immune systems.

Progression over time and complications of herpes zoster ophthalmicus.Fig. 1 Herpes zoster ophthalmicus progression over time and complications. (Litt J., et al., 2024)

Pathogenesis of Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus (HZO)

Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus (HZO)'s pathogenesis comprises the reactivation of VZV which stays dormant In the sensory ganglia post a primary varicella infection. This reactivation is triggered by factors such as aging, immunosuppression, or stress that is known to decrease cell-mediated immunity. Upon reactivation, the virus ascends to the skin through the affected nerve, resulting in the classical rash and pain. In HZO, the additional involvement of the ophthalmic nerve results in ocular inflammation alongside possible harm to ocular structures.

Therapeutics of Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus (HZO)

Therapeutics Target Description Stage
Acyclovir Herpes Zoster Virus (VZV) Acyclovir is an antiviral drug used to treat HZO. It is administered orally or intravenously, depending on the severity of the infection. It works by inhibiting viral DNA synthesis, thereby reducing viral replication. Early initiation (within 72 hours of symptom onset) is crucial to prevent ocular complications. Approved
Valacyclovir Herpes Zoster Virus (VZV) Valacyclovir is a prodrug of acyclovir, providing higher bioavailability and longer duration of action. It is taken orally and is metabolized to acyclovir in the body. It is effective in reducing the duration and severity of HZO symptoms. Approved
Famciclovir Herpes Zoster Virus (VZV) Famciclovir is another antiviral drug used for HZO therapeutics. It is taken orally and is rapidly converted to penciclovir, which inhibits viral DNA synthesis. It has a longer half-life compared to acyclovir, allowing for less frequent dosing. Approved
Recombinant Zoster Vaccine (RZV) Herpes Zoster Virus (VZV) RZV is a subunit vaccine containing glycoprotein E and an adjuvant (AS01B). It is highly effective in preventing HZ and HZO, with efficacy rates of over 90% in adults aged ≥50 years. It is recommended for adults aged ≥50 years and those at increased risk of HZ. Approved
Live-Attenuated Zoster Vaccine (ZVL) Herpes Zoster Virus (VZV) ZVL is a live-attenuated vaccine used for HZ prevention. It has shown efficacy rates of 69.8% in adults aged 50-59 years and 51.3% in adults aged ≥60 years. It is generally contraindicated in immunocompromised individuals. Approved

Disclaimer: Protheragen focuses on providing preclinical research services. This table is for information exchange purposes only. This table is not a treatment plan recommendation. For guidance on treatment options, please visit a regular hospital.

Our Services

Protheragen is a leading provider of preclinical therapeutics development services for Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus (HZO). Our comprehensive approach, coupled with our expertise in diagnostics and therapeutics development, positions us at the forefront of HZO research.

Disease Models

  • Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV) Infection Guinea Pig Models  
  • VZV Infection Mouse Models
  • VZV Infection Rat Models
  • VZV Infection Nonhuman Primate Models

Protheragen provides a wide range of preclinical research services tailored to HZO. These services are designed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of potential therapeutic interventions. If you are interested in our services, please feel free to contact us.

References

  • Litt, John, et al. "Herpes zoster ophthalmicus: presentation, complications, treatment, and prevention." Infectious Diseases and Therapy 13.7 (2024): 1439-1459.
  • Lee, Soo Min, et al. "Chronic and recurrent herpes zoster ophthalmicus." Medicina 57.10 (2021): 999.