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Anorectal Herpesvirus hominis infection in men
Abstract:
Thirteen cases of anorectal Herpesivirus hominis infection in male homosexuals are described. Symptoms included pruitus ani in 11 cases, while 7 noticed intense and pain. Change of bowel habits and anal discharge were not presenting symptoms in the majority. None had generalized complications. Inguinal lymphadenopathy, a vesicular eruption, and superficial ulceration around the anal margin were commonly found. Some developed vesicular spread to the natal cleft. Treatment with cotrimoxazole to prevent masking of possible coexistent syphilis, though satisfactory in preventing secondary infection seemed to have little effect on early resolution of the lesions. Relapse occurred in over one third of the patients. Infection with Herpesvirus hominis seems an uncommon but increasingly recognized hazard for the passive homosexual and should be included in the differential diagnosis of lesions presenting at the anus.
Insights
Anorectal Herpesvirus hominis infection is an emerging risk for homosexual men, presenting with anal itching and pain. This condition, while uncommon, requires inclusion in the differential diagnosis for anal lesions.
Area of Science:
- Proctology
- Infectious Diseases
- Dermatology
Background:
- Anorectal infections can present with varied symptoms, complicating diagnosis.
- Herpesvirus hominis (HVH) infections are increasingly recognized in specific populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the clinical presentation and management of anorectal HVH infection in male homosexuals.
- To highlight the significance of HVH as a differential diagnosis for anal lesions.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective case series of 13 male homosexual patients with anorectal HVH infection.
- Clinical data including symptoms, physical findings, and treatment outcomes were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Common symptoms included pruritus ani (11/13) and intense anal pain (7/13).
- Frequent findings were inguinal lymphadenopathy, vesicular eruptions, and superficial anal ulcerations.
- Relapse occurred in over one third of patients; cotrimoxazole showed limited effect on lesion resolution.
Conclusions:
- Anorectal HVH infection is an uncommon but recognized hazard in passive homosexuals.
- HVH should be considered in the differential diagnosis of patients presenting with anal lesions.
- Further research into effective treatments for anorectal HVH may be warranted.