A Herpesvirus Relapse, After a L-arginine Overload as a Possible Trigger, and the Therapeutic Use of Its Antagonist Competitor L-lysine: Brief Review and Case Report

Abstract Introduction: Arginine may be associated with the latent herpesvirus reactivation and L-lysine has been shown to inhibit certain viral replication phases by antagonizing arginine. Case Presentation: Man with latent HHV-1 experienced work-related stress but only after an arginine overloud, an initial recurrent labial herpes was observed. A loading dose of L-lysine was prescribed that day, followed by a maintenance dose for 30 days. Arginine-rich foods and supplements are avoided. By the sixth day, only redness, indicating the final healing stage. Conclusion: In the presence of stress, it is advisable to avoid arginine consumption, as this may expose the individual to multiple triggers, increasing the likelihood of relapse. In this case, the lysine administration, along with a reduction in arginine intake, proved effective in controlling the episode. Further epidemiological and larger-scale studies are needed to confirm the relationship between latent virus reactivation and arginine overload.