Clinical Report: Assessment of Ozone Autohemotherapy for Zoster Pain

Overview

This meta-analysis evaluates the efficacy and safety of ozone autohemotherapy (O₃-AHT) for managing zoster-associated pain (ZAP). Results indicate significant reductions in pain scores and inflammatory markers, with a favorable safety profile.

Background

Zoster-associated pain (ZAP) is a significant neuropathic pain condition resulting from varicella-zoster virus reactivation, often leading to chronic pain syndromes. Current treatments are often inadequate, particularly for older patients, highlighting the need for alternative therapies. Ozone autohemotherapy (O₃-AHT) has emerged as a potential adjunctive treatment option, warranting systematic evaluation.

Data Highlights

Key Findings

• O₃-AHT significantly reduced patient-reported pain scores compared to controls.
• Improved effective rate of pain relief was observed with O₃-AHT.
• O₃-AHT decreased levels of inflammatory markers such as IL-6.
• Quality of life scores improved with O₃-AHT treatment.
• No significant difference in adverse reaction rates between O₃-AHT and control groups.
• Substantial heterogeneity was noted among the included studies.

Clinical Implications

O₃-AHT may serve as an effective adjunctive therapy for managing ZAP, particularly in patients who do not respond adequately to conventional treatments. Clinicians should consider the potential benefits and limitations of this therapy in their treatment plans.

Conclusion

O₃-AHT shows promise in alleviating ZAP and improving quality of life, though further high-quality studies are needed to confirm these findings.

Related Resources & Content

1. Frontiers, 2026 -- Efficacy and Safety of Ozone Autohemotherapy for Zoster-Associated Pain: A Meta-Analysis and Trial Sequential Analysis
2. Clinical practice guidelines for the management of refractory postherpetic neuralgia by the Korean Pain Society - PubMed
3. Contact Lens Spectrum — Treatment Plan
4. Clinical Rheumatology — Evaluating the Safety and Effectiveness of Olokizumab in Treating Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Comprehensive Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
5. Infection — Identifying Risk Factors for Herpes Zoster Infections: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Highlighting Common Trends and Variability
6. Open Forum Infectious Diseases — Orolabial and Genital Herpes Clinical Trials: A Meta-analysis of Endpoints
7. Clinical practice guidelines for the management of refractory postherpetic neuralgia by the Korean Pain Society - PubMed
8. Frontiers | Efficacy and Safety of Ozone Autohemotherapy for Zoster-Associated Pain: A Meta-Analysis and Trial Sequential Analysis
9. Frontiers | Comparison of efficacy and safety of non-oral therapeutic interventions for zoster-associated pain: a systematic review and network meta-analysis