Understanding recurrent herpes labialis management and impact on patients' quality of life: the HERPESCOPE study

Abstract

Herpes labialis (HL) is a common and benign disease. However, frequent episodes can impair quality of life (QoL) and impact healthcare consumption. The aim of this survey was to understand patients' profiles, behavior, treatment and quality of life, using web-based questionnaires administered in the USA and in France. A total of 1002 and 1005 patients completed it, respectively. Self-diagnosis of HL is usually made at the very start of the prodromal phase. In the USA, 41% of patients seek medical advice at some point and they are often prescribed a topical antiviral drug (AVD) associated with an over-the-counter drug. Those who treat HL by themselves purchase mainly non-antiviral topical drugs. In France, the treatment is almost identical (topical AVD) whether patients seek medical advice (32%) or not. In both countries, patients with 6 or more annual episodes often go to the doctor and use systemic AVD. Continuous treatment is prescribed to 55% and 35% of patients with at least 4 annual episodes, in the USA and France respectively. Sick leaves are delivered to 33% and 14% of patients, respectively. QoL is significantly impaired in a majority of patients, all the more so when HL episodes are more frequent.