Herpes Study

[t1234]

I found this in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatoloy, May-June
2005 by Dr. Craig Burkhart Professor Medical College of Ohio.

The abstact states "Present dogma is based on herpesviruses (HSV-1 and HSV-2) residing only in the dorsal root ganglion and laying dormant unless reactivated. Polymerase chain reaction has improved specificity and sensitivity so that tenets based on previous methodologies can be questioned. On point, negative serology, such as with anti-glycoprotein G protein antibodies for HSV-1 and HSV-2, does not rule out the presence of herpes. Indeed, exposure to the virus is probably universal, with individuals displaying varied immunological responses to the herpesviruses. There is a bimodal temporal distribution of herpetic reactivation, explained by the existence of the virus in the epidermis as well as in the dorsal root ganglion. Additionally, herpes may share a symbiotic relationship with humans, in which the body actually retains the virus within numerous body organs for its possible anti-cancer properties."

I was wondering if you knew of any other studies relating to this especially regarding its anti-cancer function or existance
bimodally in the skin and ganglion?

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

No, I'm afraid I don't.  The implication of the abstract--that most everyone has herpes and that you can't rely on negative tests--seems extreme to me.  And besides, if everybody has herpes, then you've got nothing to worry about, since you can't give herpes to someone who already has it.

You might want to run this by Dr. Hunter Handsfield at the STD Forum, as well.  He's a herpes expert.

Best.

Dr. Rockoff

[HHH,MD]

Dr. Rockoff sent a message asking me to comment.

I cannot speak with authority about Dr. Burkhart's qualificaitons or credentials.  I read the paper (not just the abstract).  He expresses a hypothesis only, nothing proved.  There may well be some sort of "synergistic relationship" between HSV and humans, but that statement applies to many viruses--perhaps all viruses that infect humans, depending on what he means by "synergistic".  It is well known that some people with HSV remain seronegative with the best available serological tests, but it is rare.

In any case, there is nothing in this work that implies any difference in the current understanding of the clinical manifestations, diagnosis, or treatment of HSV infections.

Regards--   Hunter Handsfield, MD (MedHelp STD Forum)

[t1234]

I had in fact read the entire article before posting my question and understood it was a hypothesis.  It does appear to me that the author is a serious scholar, and I did see
other studies that support his conclusion regarding cancer.

However, it was not my intent to question any implications, right or wrong, that may be implied by the article.

My question is limited to whether anyone has seen other studies or artlicles regarding the subject.

Your help as always is much appreciated