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A study on herpes zoster virus and its impact on Graves ophthalmopathy has been conducted by researchers at the National Institute of Endocrinology in Bucharest, Romania. Graves ophthalmopathy is typically associated with hyperthyroidism or a history of Graves disease, but it can also occur in euthyroid patients or those with chronic thyroiditis. The study presented the case of a 76-year-old male patient with Graves disease who experienced a relapse of ophthalmopathy after an episode of herpes zoster infection. Despite the patient's comorbidities, the researchers were able to adapt the doses of corticosteroid therapy and closely monitor the patient, resulting in improved eyesight and increased quality of life. [Extracted from the article]

The AC Camargo Cancer Center in Brazil is conducting a clinical trial to examine the effects of herpes zoster (shingles) on cancer patients. The study will analyze medical records to determine the incidence of herpes zoster, hospitalization rates, and the development of postherpetic neuralgia. Additionally, the trial will assess the costs associated with herpes zoster and its impact on cancer treatment. The findings of this study may help raise awareness about the importance of vaccination for cancer patients. The study is currently in the recruitment phase and is expected to be completed by December 2024. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted in Cesena, Italy, examined the impact of active and catch-up campaigns on the uptake of the Herpes Zoster (HZ) vaccine. The study found that these campaigns significantly increased vaccine coverage, with an overall uptake of 13.5% among individuals born in 1958. However, there were variations in coverage among different centers within the same Local Health Authority. The study also highlighted the importance of utilizing multiple channels and stakeholders to maximize vaccine uptake, as text messages alone were not sufficient. This research provides valuable insights into the effectiveness of vaccination campaigns for HZ in Italy. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Colorado in Aurora, Colorado, explored the immune response to the recombinant zoster vaccine (RZV) and the zoster vaccine live (ZVL) in individuals with herpes zoster (HZ). The study found that RZV recruits a higher proportion of naive CD4+ T cells compared to ZVL, which may contribute to the durability of its effect. The researchers also observed that RZV expanded more glycoprotein E-specific CD4+ T cell clonotypes, with greater breadth and higher frequency of public clonotypes, further enhancing its protective effect. This research provides valuable insights into the mechanisms underlying the differential immunologic characteristics of these two vaccines. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by the Westmead Institute for Medical Research in Sydney, Australia, has provided new insights into the mechanism of action of adult vaccines for the Herpes Zoster Virus (HZV). The study found that T cell responses to the virus decline with age, particularly in individuals over 50 years old. Two vaccines, a live attenuated zoster vaccine (ZVL) and a recombinant zoster vaccine (RZV), were developed to restore T cell responses. The RZV, which combines the gE protein with the AS01B adjuvant system, was found to be more effective and durable in stimulating T cell responses compared to the ZVL. These findings will contribute to the development of more effective vaccines for older individuals. [Extracted from the article]

A new study conducted at Sankara Eye Hospital in Andhra Pradesh, India, has found a link between corneal collagen cross-linking with riboflavin (C3R) and the reactivation of the herpes zoster virus. The study focused on a middle-aged female patient who experienced decreased vision and eye rubbing. After undergoing C3R treatment, the patient developed herpetic skin lesions, which were successfully treated with topical eye drops and oral acyclovir. The researchers emphasize the importance of early diagnosis and appropriate treatment to prevent complications associated with herpetic keratitis. [Extracted from the article]

A case study from Anhui Medical University focuses on Wolf's isotopic response, a condition where bullous pemphigoid develops on the scar of a herpes zoster infection. The study describes the case of a 68-year-old female who presented with vesicles and bullae on her chest and back scars. Dermatological examination revealed various-sized vesicles and bullae with a central ulcer, and histology showed subepidermal blister and perivascular infiltrates. The patient was treated with oral prednisone acetate, and no recurrence was observed during the 15-month follow-up. Further information on this research can be found in the journal article. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from researchers at Tianjin Union Medical Center in China discusses a clinical study on the efficacy of a prescription called Dancao Huoxue in alleviating herpes zoster neuralgia by regulating the inflammatory response. The study involved 60 patients with herpes zoster, with half receiving Dancao Huoxue prescription in addition to penciclovir, and the other half receiving only penciclovir. The results showed that the group receiving the prescription experienced a more significant decrease in pain levels and had a higher total effective rate compared to the control group. The study suggests that Dancao Huoxue prescription can effectively alleviate herpes zoster neuralgia by regulating the inflammatory response, and IL-1b and IL-10 levels can be used as biomarkers to assess the severity of pain. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Kyung Hee University Hospital in South Korea examined the adverse events in patients with moderate-to-severe psoriasis who were treated with biologics. The study found that no patients developed new-onset inflammatory bowel disease, and the incidence rates of oral and gastrointestinal candidiasis were similar between patients treated with different inhibitors. Pulmonary tuberculosis was not reported in patients treated with certain inhibitors, and the incidence rate of herpes zoster was highest in patients treated with tumor necrosis factor inhibitors. The study concluded that biologics have favorable safety profiles in Korean patients with moderate-to-severe psoriasis. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from Houston Methodist Hospital discusses the development of shingles in a patient who had completed the recombinant varicella-zoster virus (VZV) vaccine series while taking tofacitinib, a medication used to treat autoimmune diseases. Shingles, caused by the reactivation of the VZV, is more common in older individuals and those with weakened immune systems. The researchers found that despite prior vaccination, the patient still developed shingles. The recombinant VZV vaccine is generally effective at reducing the risk of shingles, but this case highlights the need for further investigation in patients taking tofacitinib. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted in Zhejiang, People's Republic of China, aimed to investigate the levels of inflammatory cytokines in patients with herpes zoster (HZ) and their correlation with the development of postherpetic neuralgia (PHN). The study found that HZ patients had lower levels of TNF-a and higher levels of IL-10 compared to healthy controls. The severity of pain was negatively correlated with TNF-a levels and positively correlated with IL-10 levels in HZ patients. The study concluded that abnormal levels of inflammatory cytokines are present in HZ patients, and IL-10 levels may serve as an indicator for predicting the risk of developing PHN. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from the University of Peloponnese in Greece discusses the vaccination coverage of primary care providers (PCPs) against various diseases, including influenza, tetanus, pneumococcal pneumonia, and herpes zoster. The study found that vaccination rates among PCPs were suboptimal, with nurses and pharmacists having lower rates compared to physicians. Older age was also identified as a risk factor for not receiving a tetanus vaccine. The researchers concluded that targeted measures are needed to improve vaccination coverage among PCPs, which would indirectly benefit their patients as well. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from the Technion-Israel Institute of Technology describes a rare case of subacute bacterial endocarditis (SBE) following a herpes zoster (HZ) infection. The case involved a 76-year-old female who experienced complications due to a delay in diagnosis. While herpes zoster infections have not traditionally been associated with SBE, they have been linked to other bacterial infections. This report emphasizes the importance of recognizing the possibility of underlying conditions and infections when managing patients with herpes zoster symptoms. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Xiyuan Hospital in Beijing, China, explored the use of acupuncture as a treatment for acute urinary retention caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). The study focused on a 62-year-old man who experienced urinary dysfunction as a result of VZV attacking his nervous system. The patient received acupuncture treatment, which effectively relieved his symptoms and allowed him to urinate normally. The study concluded that acupuncture is a safe and effective conservative treatment for acute urinary retention caused by VZV, particularly when early intervention and full-term treatment are provided. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at George Washington University focused on Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus, a zoster infection in the first division of the trigeminal nerve that can have serious complications involving the ocular and orbital structures. The study presented a case of a 72-year-old female with multiple comorbidities who experienced a misdiagnosis, delayed treatment, and recurrence with orbital symptoms. The researchers emphasized the importance of prompt recognition, initiation of therapy, and careful monitoring to treat Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus and prevent long-term sequelae. The study has been peer-reviewed and published in Ophthalmic Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from Lariboisiere Hospital discusses a case of herpes zoster ophthalmicus (HZO) that occurred after platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy for androgenic alopecia. The researchers emphasize the importance of following guidelines when administering PRP therapy to ensure a safe outcome with no complications. PRP therapy is a minimally invasive technique with promising outcomes for hair loss, but it carries a low risk of side effects, including infection and localized reaction. This case highlights the need for caution and adherence to guidelines when using PRP therapy. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted in Miyun District, Beijing, China, examined the impact of herpes zoster (HZ) and post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN) on health-related quality of life (HRQoL). The study found that HZ and PHN caused significant morbidity, particularly among adults aged 50 years and older. The duration of pain was longer for PHN compared to HZ, and the burden of the disease increased with age. The researchers suggested that vaccination should be considered to alleviate the burden of this painful disease. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Central South University in Changsha, China have conducted a retrospective cohort study and literature review on the pain management of herpes zoster ophthalmicus (HZO). They investigated a dual-neuromodulation strategy that targets the peripheral branch and trigeminal ganglion for pain relief. The study found that combining short-term peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS) with pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) of the trigeminal ganglion was effective in reducing pain severity in HZO patients. The dual modulation strategy provided better pain control compared to PNS therapy alone. This research suggests that the dual-neuromodulation strategy may offer additional therapeutic effects for pain symptoms in HZO patients. [Extracted from the article]

A new report from Sahlgrenska University Hospital in Gothenburg, Sweden discusses the risk of vaccine-preventable infections in patients with multiple myeloma (MM). The study, which included 8,672 MM patients and 34,567 controls, found that the risk of acquiring a vaccine-preventable infection was 8-fold higher in MM patients compared to controls. The risk was particularly high for pneumococcal infection, which was 17-fold higher in MM patients. The study suggests that vaccinations are underutilized in MM patients and should be encouraged to prevent these infections. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at Chia-Yi Christian Hospital found that fatty liver disease (FLD) is associated with an increased risk of herpes zoster (HZ), also known as shingles. The study analyzed data from the National Health Insurance Research Database and found that patients with FLD had a higher risk of HZ compared to those without FLD. Furthermore, the study found that non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) was associated with a higher risk of HZ than alcoholic fatty liver disease (AFLD). The researchers suggest that patients with NAFLD should be informed of their increased risk of HZ. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted in Pavia, Italy, examined the immunogenicity and safety of a recombinant vaccine against the herpes zoster virus (HZ) in cancer patients undergoing immunotherapy. The study found that a significant proportion of patients mounted a strong immune response after receiving the vaccine, and this response remained stable over a six-month period. The researchers concluded that the vaccine showed promising immunogenicity in immunocompromised cancer patients, and further analysis will be conducted to evaluate the long-term persistence of the immune response. This study provides valuable insights into the potential use of the vaccine in preventing HZ in cancer patients. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from researchers at Zhongda Hospital Southeast University in Nanjing, China, describes the case of a 63-year-old patient with acute herpes zoster on the left side of their head, face, and eye. The patient was treated with cryogenic radiofrequency plasma ablation and CT-guided minimally invasive surgical treatment, which resulted in significant pain relief and rapid subsiding of the skin herpes. This case demonstrates the effectiveness of the CT-guided cryo-plasma technique in relieving trigeminal herpes zoster and reducing the risk of postherpetic trigeminal neuralgia and ocular complications. The full report can be accessed for free online. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report published by GlaxoSmithKline plc discusses the effectiveness and safety of the recombinant zoster vaccine (RZV) in preventing herpes zoster (HZ), commonly known as shingles. The researchers conducted a literature search and found that RZV was highly effective against HZ in real-world settings, including in adults aged 50 years and patients aged 18 years with immunodeficiency or immunosuppression. The effectiveness was higher with two doses compared to one dose, especially in elderly individuals and those with compromised immune systems. The safety profile of RZV was consistent with that established in clinical trials, and it did not appear to increase the risk of disease flares in patients with immune-mediated diseases. Overall, the studies reaffirm the favorable benefit-risk profile of RZV. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers from Central South University in China aimed to describe the characteristics and economic burden of hospitalized patients with herpes zoster (HZ) in Hunan Province, China, before the introduction of the HZ vaccine. The study found that HZ infection resulted in a large direct medical cost and heavy disease burden, particularly in patients with advanced age or underlying medical conditions. The researchers concluded that the HZ vaccine has the potential to effectively reduce the disease burden and should be widely promoted, especially among high-risk groups. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from Beijing Jiaotong University discusses new research on the herpes zoster virus, which causes the disease known as shingles. The study focuses on the development of a potential vaccine for shingles using recombinant adenoviruses expressing a specific protein from the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). The researchers found that the vaccine candidate induced similar immune responses in mice as the currently available shingles vaccines. This study suggests that the recombinant adenoviruses expressing VZV protein could be a promising candidate for further development as a shingles vaccine. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at Teikyo University has provided new findings on Ramsay Hunt syndrome (RHS), a complication of latent varicella-zoster virus infection. The study reports a rare case of RHS in an immunocompetent young adult who developed disseminated herpes zoster, a more severe form of the condition. The patient experienced facial weakness, otalgia, vesicles on the ear, hearing loss, and vertigo. Treatment with antiviral drugs and steroids led to a full recovery without any long-term complications. The study emphasizes the importance of distinguishing RHS from other conditions for accurate clinical decision-making. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by Humanitas University in Milan, Italy, has revealed new findings on the herpes zoster virus (HZ) in lupus nephritis (LN) patients. The study aimed to evaluate the prevalence, incidence, and predictors of HZ development in LN. The results showed that HZ occurred in 22.6% of LN patients, with an average onset of 8.7 years after LN diagnosis. The incidence of HZ has increased in recent decades, and certain treatments, such as azathioprine and methylprednisolone pulses, were found to provide protection against HZ, while higher cumulative doses of glucocorticoids, cyclophosphamide, and mycophenolate mofetil increased susceptibility. Continuous monitoring of LN patients is important due to the unpredictable occurrence of HZ. [Extracted from the article]

According to a report by DelveInsight, the herpes zoster market is expected to grow positively from 2019 to 2032. In 2022, the market size in the 7MM (United States, EU-4, United Kingdom, and Japan) was USD 834 million, and it is projected to increase at a significant CAGR. The number of individuals at risk for herpes zoster in the United States is expected to rise from over 100 million in 2022 to more than 160 million by 2032. Various pharmaceutical companies, including Immorna Biotherapeutics, Inc., ICON plc, and Pfizer, are developing new drugs for herpes zoster treatment. Key therapies include JCXH-105, TNM005, and CRV-101 Vaccine Antigen High Dose. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences in Sari, Iran, examined the clinical features and underlying conditions of patients with herpes zoster (shingles) based on their age. The study found that older individuals, who often have reduced immune function and underlying diseases, are more susceptible to shingles. The research highlighted the importance of closely monitoring and providing early treatment to patients with underlying diseases or those on immunosuppressive drugs to prevent severe complications. The study included 180 patients and concluded that the frequency of underlying diseases, such as cancer and diabetes, was significantly higher in individuals over 50 years of age. [Extracted from the article]

A case report published in The Egyptian Journal of Internal Medicine discusses a rare occurrence of herpes zoster ophthalmicus (HZO) and varicella zoster meningoencephalitis in a patient with retroviral disease (RVD). The patient, a 35-year-old woman, presented with altered sensorium and developed symptoms such as severe headache and painful vesicles on the scalp. Ophthalmic examination revealed conjunctivitis and keratitis, indicating acute HZO. The diagnosis of acute meningoencephalitis was confirmed through DNA testing of cerebrospinal fluid. Treatment with antiviral medication and steroids led to a rapid recovery. The researchers emphasize the importance of considering varicella zoster virus infection in the differential diagnosis of patients with newly diagnosed RVD presenting with meningoencephalitis and HZO. [Extracted from the article]

A report from the University of the East Ramon Magsaysay discusses the management and prevention of herpes zoster virus (HZ) in the Philippines. The research highlights that HZ vaccination is not currently part of the Philippine National Immunization Program, despite the global prevalence of the virus. Healthcare professionals in the country have reported seeing HZ cases across specialties, with postherpetic neuralgia being a common complication. The introduction of a recently approved recombinant zoster vaccine is seen as a potential solution to prevent HZ and address the burden it imposes on patients. The report suggests steps such as improved education for healthcare professionals and patients, as well as establishing local vaccine recommendations, to establish HZ vaccination in the Philippines. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by the University of Duisburg-Essen in Germany explores the effectiveness of the adjuvanted, recombinant herpes zoster vaccine (RZV) in patients with liver cirrhosis and post-liver transplantation. The study aims to recruit a total of 308 patients and will measure and compare responses to the vaccine based on the type and degree of immunosuppression. The primary outcome is to determine the efficacy of the vaccine using gE-specific antibody detection assays. The findings of this study will be published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at conferences. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers from the University of Utah examined the clinical and economic implications of increasing access to herpes zoster (HZ) vaccination in community pharmacies. The study used a hybrid model of decision tree and Markov models to estimate the lifetime cost and health outcomes of community pharmacy-based vaccination compared to nonpharmacy-based vaccination. The results showed that community pharmacy-based HZ vaccination was associated with a higher number of vaccinations, averted cases of shingles and postherpetic neuralgia, and lower costs compared to nonpharmacy-based vaccination. The findings suggest that community pharmacy-based vaccination programs could be beneficial and serve as a model for future evaluations in the United States. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study published in The BMJ examined the long-term effectiveness of the live shingles vaccine. The study found that the vaccine is most effective in the first year after vaccination and then gradually decreases in effectiveness over time. However, even after ten years, the vaccine still provides some protection against shingles and its complications, even in individuals with weakened immune systems. The study used data from a large healthcare provider in the US and included over 1.5 million adults aged 50 and older. The findings suggest that further research is needed to evaluate the vaccine's effectiveness in individuals with chronic diseases. [Extracted from the article]

A retrospective cohort study conducted at the University of Bari in Italy investigated the association between varicella-zoster virus (VZV) reactivation and increased vascular risk in People Living with HIV (PLWH). The study found that PLWH with a history of herpes zoster (HZ) had a higher prevalence of ischemic events, such as deep venous thrombosis, stroke, and acute myocardial infarction, compared to those without a history of HZ. Positive serology for both VZV and HZ correlated with an increased ischemic risk. The researchers concluded that VZV may exacerbate vascular risk in PLWH, especially in the presence of other predisposing factors. Further research is needed to confirm these findings. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Lund University in Sweden investigated the serological immunogenicity and safety of the herpes zoster subunit (HZ/su) vaccine in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) who were receiving Janus kinase inhibitors (JAKis). The study found that the HZ/su vaccine was immunogenic in most RA patients treated with JAKis and had an acceptable safety profile. The results support the use of the HZ/su vaccine in this vulnerable population. The study was registered on ClinicalTrials.gov and was financially supported by various organizations including Pfizer. [Extracted from the article]