Acyclovir-resistant varicella zoster infection

Acyclovir-resistant varicella zoster infection is rare, especially in the post ART era, but when it does occur it is associated with significant mortality and morbidity. These patients usually have advanced disease with CD4 cell counts below 20 cells/μL. The presence of atypical lesions or a failed clinical response should prompt evaluation for acyclovir susceptibility. Foscarnet is recommended for the treatment of acyclovir-resistant zoster infection.[32]