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Intrauterine herpes simplex infection
George T Vasileiadis1, Henry W Roukema, Walter Romano
1Division of Neonatology, University of Western Ontario, St Joseph's Health Care, London, Ontario, Canada.
American Journal of Perinatology
|March 28, 2003
Summary
Neonatal herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection can occur before birth. This case highlights intrauterine HSV infection after membrane rupture, leading to severe infant brain damage and prompting discussions on prevention.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Neonatal Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Neonatal herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection is typically acquired during birth.
- Intrauterine HSV infection is rare but can have severe consequences.
Observation:
- A premature infant presented with extensive brain damage, hemorrhage, and cystic encephalomalacia.
- Maternal history included a first episode of genital HSV in early pregnancy and premature rupture of membranes 11 days prior to delivery.
Findings:
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging indicated hemorrhage occurred 7–14 days before scanning.
- Placental pathology supported an ascending intrauterine infection.
Implications:
- This case demonstrates ascending herpetic intrauterine infection following membrane rupture.
- It raises critical questions regarding preventative strategies and suppressive antiviral therapy for pregnant women with HSV.