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I was diagnosed as HIV positive in December 1999. Baseline CD4 = 348; VL = 41,000. I am not yet on meds and am waiting results of my second reading. Overall I feel very good but do have some leukoplakia. My doctor has said it will go away when I do go on meds. Is this true? We are leaning toward a protease inhibitor-sparing regimen to start with. Also, beyond meds, is there anything that can be done for the leukoplakia that can lessen its appearance?
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Response from Dr. Reznik
Yes, for the most part, once HAART is initiated the oral hairy leukoplakia (OHL) will go away. Actually, we look for recurrence of OHL as a sign that there may be viral breakthrough on a person's current combination.
If the appearance is bothersome, you can take 800 mg of acyclovir, three to four times a day for two to three weeks to minimize the appearance. The problem with this therapy is that once medication is stopped, the OHL will recur. Hopefully by this time you will be on your regimen.
Take care!
DR
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Response from Dr. Reznik
