What is a primary management approach for herpes virus infections on peristomal skin?

• A. Antiviral medications
• B. Systemic antibiotics
• C. Antifungal creams
• D. Steroid injections

Answer: (A)

Antiviral medications are the primary way to manage herpes simplex infections on peristomal skin. Herpes lesions are caused by the herpes simplex virus, so treatment targets the virus itself to reduce replication, shorten the course, and lessen symptoms. This can involve topical antivirals for localized, mild outbreaks or systemic antivirals for more extensive or recurrent cases.

Systemic antibiotics won’t help a viral infection, since they target bacteria. Antifungal creams treat fungal infections like candidiasis, not herpes. Steroid injections can suppress the immune response and may worsen viral infections or delay healing, so they’re not appropriate for active herpes lesions around the stoma. Keeping the area clean, dry, and protected with a barrier while using antiviral therapy supports healing as well.