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Case 4: Varicella Zoster Virus

You answered:

B The preferred therapy for dermatomal herpes zoster in HIV-infected patients consists of acyclovir (Zovirax), valacyclovir (Valtrex), or famciclovir (Famvir).

This answer is correct. The medications acyclovir, valacyclovir, and famciclovir are all considered acceptable options for the treatment of dermatomal herpes zoster in HIV-infected patients. The duration of therapy is typically 7-10 days, but longer courses should be considered if the lesions are slow to resolve. Corticosteroids are not recommended in this setting.


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