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Herpes
simplex virus (HSV) is a latent infection in the human peripheral nervous system that often becomes dormant and reactivates. Oral herpes commonly presented as cold sores in and around the mouth is Type-1 of the virus (HSV-1). Genital herpes often presents as painful fluid-filled blisters in the lower region of the body, but not limited to the genitals and buttocks, is Type-2 herpes (HSV-2)
Contraindication
A person with HSV may not be an appropriate candidate for conventional or custom wavefront Lasik, Bladeless Lasik, PRK, LASEK, Epi-Lasik, or any refractive surgery technique that removes corneal tissue, due to the
high probability that these procedures may cause a reoccurrence.
RLE and P-IOL are lens-based procedures that are similarly problematic, but may not as dramaticly affect HSV.
Any elective surgery is contraindicated even if absent of an outbreak in years. The reactivation and
replication of latent HSV can be induced by a variety of stimuli including
fever, trauma, emotional stress, sunlight, even menstruation. The body
may consider refractive surgery as trauma and react accordingly. Reactivation
is more frequent and severe in immunocompromised patients.
Herpes Simplex Keratitis
A patient with herpes simplex keratitis, probably should not have an cornea based refractive surgery like Lasik, Bladless Lasik, PRK, LASEK, or Epi-Lasik.
Even dormant herpes simplex keratitis can be reactivated by the manipulation of the cornea during these types of refractive
surgery
Suppressive Therapy
Many forms of suppressive therapy, including antiviral drugs like acyclovir (Zovirax), famciclovir (Famvir), and valacyclovir (Valtrex), may cause unexpected reactions during refractive surgery and the immediate healing period. The risk of infection is greater in immunosuppressed individuals
Elevated Risk
Patients with HSV have
had refractive surgery without reoccurrence or problems, however HSV
is a significant elevated risk factor. A detailed and frank discussion of the potential problems
with both a general doctor and your refractive surgeon.
Looking For Best Lasik Surgeon?
If you are ready to choose a doctor to be evaluated for conventional
or custom wavefront Lasik, Bladeless Lasik, PRK, or any refractive surgery procedure, we recommend you consider a doctor who has been evaluated and certified by the USAEyes nonprofit organization.
Locate a USAEyes Evaluated & Certified Lasik Doctor.
Personalized Answers
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