Which statement best describes the effect of 6 months of suppressive oral acyclovir following neonatal herpes treatment?

Which statement best describes the effect of 6 months of suppressive oral acyclovir following neonatal herpes treatment?

• A. Increases risk of bacterial infections
• B. Reduces recurrences of mucocutaneous lesions and improves neurodevelopmental outcomes
• C. Is unnecessary
• D. Causes neutropenia

Answer: (B)

Suppressive oral acyclovir for six months after neonatal herpes targets ongoing viral activity that can cause recurrent mucocutaneous lesions and, more importantly, potential CNS damage. By keeping viral replication in check during this early period, recurrences are reduced and the risk of neurodevelopmental impairment diminishes, leading to better developmental outcomes. It doesn’t raise risk for bacterial infections, isn’t unnecessary for infants with neonatal HSV, and neutropenia is not a typical outcome of this regimen. The main benefit is fewer recurrences and improved neurodevelopmental prognosis.

Suppressive oral acyclovir for six months after neonatal herpes targets ongoing viral activity that can cause recurrent mucocutaneous lesions and, more importantly, potential CNS damage. By keeping viral replication in check during this early period, recurrences are reduced and the risk of neurodevelopmental impairment diminishes, leading to better developmental outcomes. It doesn’t raise risk for bacterial infections, isn’t unnecessary for infants with neonatal HSV, and neutropenia is not a typical outcome of this regimen. The main benefit is fewer recurrences and improved neurodevelopmental prognosis.