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12:18
A Murine Model of a Burn Wound Reconstructed with an Allogeneic Skin Graft
Published on: August 8, 2020
Cutaneous herpetic infections complicating burns
R L Sheridan1, J T Schulz, J M Weber
1Department of Surgery, Division of Burns and Trauma, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA. sheridan.robert@mgh.harvard.edu
Summary
Serious burn patients can experience severe herpetic ulceration due to herpes simplex virus reactivation. Prompt diagnosis and treatment with antiviral chemotherapy led to complete healing without scarring in all reported cases.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Infectious Diseases
- Burn Care
Background:
- Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is common, often presenting as cold sores.
- Burn injuries create an immunosuppressed state, increasing the risk of HSV reactivation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report cases of severe herpetic ulceration in burn patients.
- To highlight the effectiveness of antiviral treatment for these infections.
Main Methods:
- Diagnosis of herpetic infection via culture and direct immunofluorescence.
- Treatment with systemic and topical Acyclovir (Zovirax).
Main Results:
- Six patients (four adults, two children) developed severe herpetic ulceration.
- Facial/neck involvement in five patients, partial thickness burn wound in one.
- All patients healed completely without visible scarring under Acyclovir treatment.
Conclusions:
- Severe herpetic ulceration can occur in burn patients due to HSV reactivation.
- Prompt diagnosis and antiviral treatment are crucial for successful outcomes.
- Rapidly progressive facial or wound vesicles/ulceration in burn patients warrant immediate herpetic evaluation.
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