Human Herpesviruses: Diagnosis and Clinical Management

Herpesvirus refers to a type of virus that belongs to the herpesviridae family. It has been classified into eight different types which include herpes simplex type I (HSV-1), herpes simplex type II (HSV-2), varicella-zoster virus (VZV/HHV-3), Epstein-Barr virus (EBV/HHV-4), cytomegalovirus (CMV/HHV-5), herpesvirus type 6 (HBLV/HHV-6), herpesvirus type 7 (HHV-7) and Kaposi's sarcoma herpesvirus (KSHV/HHV-8). Both direct and serologic techniques are used to diagnose the human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) infection. One of the most prominent techniques used for quantifying viral DNA in blood, organs and other body fluids is real-time PCR. There is currently no officially approved treatment for herpes infections. However, supportive therapy including sufficient hydration and acetaminophen for fever is recommended in all patients with symptomatic HHV-6 infection. This book is compiled in such a manner, that it will provide in-depth knowledge about the diagnosis and management of human herpesviruses. It will help new researchers by foregrounding their knowledge about this virus. The book will provide comprehensive knowledge to medical students and professionals.