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Chronic herpes simplex virus type I glossitis in an immunocompromised man
1Department of Dermatopathology, University Hospital of Liège, B-4000 Liège, Belgium. af.nikkels@chu.ulg.ac.be
The British Journal of Dermatology
|May 8, 1999
Summary
Recurrent tongue infection by herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) is rare, typically affecting immunocompromised patients. This case highlights unique HSV-1 median glossitis with extensive mucosal necrosis and distinct viral protein distribution.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Immunology
- Oral Pathology
Background:
- Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) commonly causes acute gingivostomatitis.
- Recurrent HSV-1 tongue infections are exceptionally rare and usually seen in immunocompromised individuals.
Observation:
- A 57-year-old man with COPD and sciatica presented with chronic median glossitis.
- The primary clinical and histological finding was massive necrosis of the entire tongue mucosa.
Findings:
- Immunohistochemistry revealed widespread HSV envelope glycoproteins (gB, gC, gD) in the chorion.
- In situ hybridization detected limited HSV-1 DNA in epithelial cells, contrasting with protein distribution.
Implications:
- The extensive necrosis and unique viral protein/DNA distribution pattern are characteristic of this rare median herpetic glossitis.
- These findings differentiate it from more common HSV infections and may inform understanding of viral pathogenesis in specific oral conditions.