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Showing posts with the label Foscavir Mechanism of Action

Foscavir Mechanism of Action: How It Inhibits Viral DNA Polymerase

  Introduction: Role of antivirals in CMV and HSV infections   Herpes simplex virus (HSV) and cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections are commonly seen in immunocompromised patients, particularly in patients with HIV. However, fulminant CMV infection and concurrent infection with HSV and CMV in non-HIV patients are quite rare. 1 CMV can lead to severe retinitis and end-organ disease, especially in people with AIDS, 2 HSV can produce stubborn mucocutaneous lesions and infections. 3 CMV and HSV infection can occur simultaneously at distinct sites in the body, and CMV infection may predispose to HSV reactivation due to its long-term effect on cell-mediated immunity. Early recognition of opportunistic infections in immunocompromised patients can affect length of hospital stay, morbidity, and, ultimately, mortality. 1 Antiviral drugs inhibit CMV replication by interfering with viral DNA synthesis. 4 Oral antiviral medications have been shown to decrease the severity of symptoms, red...