Herpes-associated erythema multiforme(HAEM) is a common subtype of erythema multiforme (EM) which usually develops 1-3 weeks after the recurrent herpetic episodes. The role of HSV in the pathogenesis of EM has not been fully defined. Recent
studies,
however, suggest that the host immune response to HSV, especially cell-mediated immune mechanism, is critical to the development of HAEM and, based on these findings, a variety of immunomodulating agents have been tried for the treatment of
recurrent
EM.
Thymopentin, an immunomodulator that influences the maturation of thymocyte and mature Tcell function, has been used as a therapeutic agent for various autoimmune diseases and recurrent HSV infection.
A 37-year-old man with HAEM, who had failed to respond to intermittent acyclovir therapy for about 5 years, was treated with a subcutaneous injection of thymopentn 50mg three times a week for 6 consecutive weeks. The EM lesions were completily
cleared 5
weeks after starting the treatment without any significant side effects.
We herein, report a case of HAEM who has been treated with a 6-week schedule of thymopentin therapy and has showed no recurrence for the 6 months of follow-up period.
(kor J Dermatol 1996;34(1) : 141~146)
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