P233 Is routine blood monitoring for suppressive herpes treatment necessary?. (18th May 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Howe, Bridie; Liew, Mei; Bushby, Stephen; Lapham, Robert; Hussey, Jane
• Is Part Of: Sexually transmitted infections. Volume 91(2015)Supplement 1
• Page Start: A92
• Page End: A93
• Publication Date: 2015-05-18
• Subjects: Sexually transmitted diseases -- Periodicals; HIV infections -- Periodicals; 616.951005
• DOI: 10.1136/sextrans-2015-052126.275
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1368-4973

Abstract

Abstract : Background: There is no published evidence on the need for routine blood monitoring for people requiring daily oral acyclovir. Locally clinical practice differred between services. Dose reduction in moderate to severe renal impairment is recommended. Guidance for intravenous administration recommends measuring full blood count (FBC), renal (U&E) and liver function (LFTs) periodically. Methods: In 2013 we reviewed clinical notes coded for herpes suppression to establish whether BASHH and local standards were met for management of herpes suppression and routine blood monitoring. Results: 41 cases were reviewed. 32 (73%) had baseline blood tests. Of these 6/32 (19%) had abnormal results: 2 raised LFTS, 2 low estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR), 2 low neutrophils – all resolved on repeating except one with fluctuating neutropenia. 19/32 (47%) had bloods repeated at our service and additional 16% advised to attend GP. Only 1/19 (5%) had normal baseline bloods, low eGFR at one month, but normal at 2 months. Discussion: 19% of those tested had blood abnormalities at baseline, but only 3% had on-going abnormalities likely affected by acyclovir. We recommend checking U&E, LFT and FBC at baseline. If normal no further monitoring is needed. If mildy abnormal repeat but continue aciclovir. If significantly low eGFR, leucopenia or elevated LFTs either dose reduce or stop acyclovir and investigate.