Is the level of varicella-zoster virus IgG associated with symptomatic
status of genital herpes simplex virus infection? A case-control study
Abstract
Objectives Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) is a common infection, affecting
90% of the population by age 50. Recurrent symptomatic outbreaks,
experienced by a minority, have significant psychological and
psychosexual effects. The Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV), resembling HSV2,
shows potential for a functional cure via vaccination. This study
investigates the link between low VZV antibody levels and recurrent HSV
outbreaks. Methods During this case controlled study a total of 110
patients with symptomatic and asymptomatic HSV1&2 were recruited during
their sexual health screen. Serum samples were collected between Aug
2019 - July 2022, breaks in the study occurred due to COVID and
Monkeypox outbreaks. Primary outcome measure was the serological status
of HSV and VZV and VZV IgG titre level. Results The average age was 37.3
years (range 21-65 years). For asymptomatic genital HSV2 the average VZV
IgG titre was 2373.9 IU/mL (n=17) and 1219.0 IU/mL for the symptomatic
group (n=67); p=<0.00001), with similar results for HSV1.
Conclusion There is a strong association between average higher
varicella-zoster virus (VZV) IgG level and being an asymptomatic carrier
of Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV)1&2. Further research is planned.