ABSTRACT
The past decade has witnessed significant advances in the therapy of human viral infections, particularly those caused by herpes simplex and varicella-zoster viruses. These advances were once only a basis for discussion among clinical and biomedical investigators; however, they have now been applied by the practicing physician to the management of viral diseases, resulting in improved patient care. The treatment of varicella-zoster virus (VZV) infections in both the immunocompromised and normal host has been attempted for approximately 20 years. The epidemiology, pathogenesis, and natural history of VZV infections have been reviewed in prior chapters. The treatment of these infections, particularly as it relates to the administration of immune globulin products for prevention or the administration of either interferon or antivirals for treatment. It has been reported that oral therapy of children with VZV infection as well as adults with localized or disseminated zoster led to a rapid cessation of lesion formation and the failure to develop significant complications.
