Human Herpesvirus 8 Infection

Prevention of Exposure
(1) The mechanism of transmission of human herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8; Kaposi's sarcoma [KS]-associated herpesvirus) is not known. Epidemiologic evidence suggests that sexual transmission is likely in men who have sex with men (MSM), and may occur in heterosexuals as well. However, the virus has been detected more frequently in saliva than in semen from HHV-8-seropositive HIV-infected persons. Although the efficacy of condom use for preventing HHV-8 infection has not been established, HIV-infected persons should use latex condoms during every act of sexual intercourse to reduce the risk of exposure to sexually transmitted pathogens (AII).

Prevention of Disease
(2) Because clinical utility of routine serologic testing to identify HHV-8 infection has not been established, no recommendation for serologic testing can be made at this time.

(3) Lower rates of KS have been observed in AIDS patients treated with ganciclovir or foscarnet for CMV retinitis (59). HHV-8 replication in vitro is inhibited by ganciclovir, foscarnet, and cidofovir. However, because the efficacy and clinical utility of these drugs in preventing KS has not been established, no recommendation can be made concerning use of these or other drugs to prevent KS in individuals co-infected with HIV and HHV-8.

(4) Potent antiretroviral drug combinations that suppress HIV replication reduce the frequency of KS in HIV-infected persons and should be considered in all persons who qualify for such therapy (BII).

Prevention of Recurrence
(5) Effective suppression of HIV replication with antiretroviral drugs in HIV-infected patients with KS may prevent KS progression or new lesion development and should be considered in all persons with KS (BII).

Note

Pediatric Note
(6) In parts of the world where HHV-8 is endemic, horizontal transmission may occur among young children, possibly via saliva. However, no recommendations are currently available for prevention of HHV-8 transmission in childhood.

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