N-chlorotaurine and N-bromotaurine Combination Regimen for the Cure of Valacyclovir-unresponsive Herpes Zoster Comorbidity in a Multiple Sclerosis Patient

Abstract

Aims: Skin herpes zoster frequently affects immunocompromised patients including multiple sclerosis patients that belong to a distinct category of autoimmunity. Although considered a manageable condition, non-immunocompetent patients are suboptimally targeted by the gold standard valacyclovir treatment. In the case presented here, a new endogenous antiseptic treatment was applied. Presentation of Case: We describe a recurrent multiple sclerosis patient with herpes zoster skin infection, who was unresponsive to cotreatment with valacyclovir. Topical application of 0.8% N-chlorotaurine twice daily for four days resulted in immediate symptom resolution including loss of pain. Alternating application of 0.8% N-chlorotaurine and 1.0% N-bromotaurine in the next three days led to rapid healing. Discussion and Conclusion: This is the first case where natural taurine haloamines (N-chlorotaurine and N-bromotaurine), which are involved in innate immunity, were applied in reactivated, painful herpes zoster. The rapid clinical healing observed suggests specific investigations of the therapeutic effect of these compounds in this indication.