[An interferon-like substance derived from bird fibroblasts in the treatment of human recurrent herpes simplex].

In a clinical study lasting 15 months 42 patients suffering from herpes simplex were locally treated with an interferonlike substance prepared on avian fibroblast cultures. In 90% of all cases a certain improvement was achieved. In 60% reduced intensity and in 57% a shortening of prodromal symptoms was established, reduced dimensions of skin lesions were noted in 75%. In 21 patients only abortive forms without vesicles appeared. The mean duration of the herpetic episodes was reduced from 10.1 days to 4.5 days. Finally the possible mechanism of this favourable effect are discussed.