Resolution of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease With Valacyclovir.
Publication/Presentation Date
6-1-2026
Abstract
Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) is a common viral illness that predominantly affects young children, with approximately 95% of cases occurring in individuals under the age of 5. While typically self-limiting, a subset of cases may present with more severe cardiopulmonary and neurological sequelae, such as myocarditis, pneumonia, meningitis, and encephalitis. Management is primarily supportive, as no standard antiviral therapy currently exists. However, previous case reports have suggested that acyclovir may offer therapeutic benefits. We present a case of a healthy 39-year-old female who experienced dramatic symptomatic improvement within 10 hours and complete resolution within 48 hours following off-label valacyclovir use. This case raises the possibility of valacyclovir use in adults with HFMD and highlights the need for further research to validate its role.
Volume
25
Issue
6
First Page
562
Last Page
564
ISSN
1545-9616
Published In/Presented At
Nusrat, F., Neubauer, Z., & Yang, S. (2026). Resolution of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease With Valacyclovir. Journal of drugs in dermatology : JDD, 25(6), 562–564. https://doi.org/10.36849/JDD.9394
Disciplines
Business Administration, Management, and Operations | Health and Medical Administration | Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods
PubMedID
42235036
Department(s)
Administration and Leadership
Document Type
Article