Antiviral Therapy - 1
In addition to its antimicrobial and antifungal effects, saliva demonstrates an antiviral effect. Salivary and mucosal antibodies are protective against multiple viruses. Salivary mucins help to protect oral tissues from herpes simplex virus and human immunodeficiency virus.61, 62, 63 Thus, viral infections must be considered in the xerostomic client. Common viral infections seen in dentistry include primary herpes simplex, recurrent herpes simplex (herpes labialis), herpes zoster and HIV. Viral infections are generally preceded by the prodromal signs of local tingling, malaise and fever. Onset is generally acute, with a vesicular eruption of the soft tissues. When the vesicles rupture, small ulcerations appear; which if left untreated, may coalesce to form larger lesions. Viral lesions usually last for 10 to 14 days.53
