Herpes and HIV transmission risk

Ulcers can provide a portal of entry for the virus, and the inflammation associated with them can result in the presence of a large number of CD4 and other immune cells, which are targeted by HIV. In people with HIV, the virus may also be present in the ulcers.

In a recent study of serodiscordant couples, investigators found that the only two factors significantly associated with an increased risk of HIV transmission were viral load [1]A measurement of the quantity of HIV RNA in the blood. Viral load blood test results are expressed as the number of copies (of HIV) per milliliter of blood plasma. and genital ulcers.

HIV was detected in the lesions of almost 50% of HIV positive men with genital ulcer disease, investigators reported in the April 1 edition of Clinical [2]Pertaining to or founded on observation and treatment of participants, as distinguished from theoretical or basic science. Infectious Diseases.

Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV- ) is the leading cause of genital ulcers, and both symptomatic and asymptomatic HSV-2 have been shown to increase HIV shedding in individuals co-infected with both viruses [3]A small infective organism which is incapable of reproducing outside a host cell..

This evidence supports the ongoing use of herpes prophylaxis medication, such as Valtrex, particularly for sexually active people with HIV.