USE OF INTRAVENOUS ACYCLOVIR IN THE TREATMENT OF HERPET VIRAL MENINGITIS

Abstract

Objective: understand the use of intravenous acyclovir in the treatment of viral herpes meningitis. Literature Review: Viral meningitis is an inflammation of the meninges, membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord, composed of three layers: pia mater, arachnoid mater and dura mater. These structures protect the central nervous system and house cells such as fibroblasts, immune cells and neural stem cells. The most common symptoms include fever, present in 60% of cases, headache in more than 80% of patients, as well as cognitive decline, cranial nerve problems, seizures and neurological deficits, which vary depending on the area affected. Acyclovir is effective in treatment because it selectively inhibits viral replication within infected cells, thanks to the progressive phosphorylation that transforms ACV into its active form, acyclovir triphosphate, blocking viral DNA replication without significantly affecting healthy cells. Final considerations: Viral meningitis remains a major public health challenge, highlighting the need for early detection and appropriate treatment. Understanding the symptoms and the correct use of antivirals, such as acyclovir, are essential for effective management of the disease, while advances in diagnostic techniques, such as PCR, have improved the accuracy in identifying the causative agents. However, challenges remain, particularly in low-resource areas where access to rapid tests is limited. Treatment requires careful monitoring of side effects, such as neurotoxicity, which can be controlled with the correct administration of acyclovir. Continued research and the development of new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies are essential to address viral meningitis, along with the promotion of preventive practices and education about risk factors, which are vital to reducing the incidence of the disease.