Antiviral Therapy Dental Indications — NDEB AFK MCQ
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Correct answer: C — Primary herpetic gingivostomatitis in an immunocompromised patient or severe cases in children at risk of dehydration
Systemic antiviral therapy (valacyclovir 1000 mg BID or acyclovir 200-400 mg 5 times daily for 7-10 days) is indicated for: (1) Primary herpetic gingivostomatitis in immunocompromised patients; (2) Severe PHGS in children at risk of dehydration (due to inability to eat/drink from painful oral lesions); (3) Herpes zoster (shingles) affecting the trigeminal nerve; (4) Frequent recurrent herpes labialis (prophylactic or episodic therapy). For immunocompetent adults with mild PHGS, supportive care alone (hydration, antipyretics, topical anaesthetics) is usually sufficient.
Reference: Neville – Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology, 4th ed., 2016