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Relapsing herpes simplex-2 folliculitis in the beard area.
Caterina Foti1, Raffaele Filotico, Agata Calvario
1Department of Internal Medicine, Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Unit of Dermatology, University of Bari, Policlinico, Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy. c.forti@dermatologia.uniba.it
European Journal of Dermatology : EJD
|November 27, 2004
Summary
Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) caused recurrent facial folliculitis in an immunocompetent patient. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) confirmed HSV-2, highlighting atypical presentations and the value of PCR in diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Virology
- Molecular Diagnostics
Background:
- Recurrent folliculitis can present with atypical clinical features.
- Distinguishing herpetic infections from bacterial or fungal causes is crucial for effective treatment.
Observation:
- A 52-year-old immunocompetent male presented with painful, recurrent folliculitis on his left cheek.
- Standard tests (bacteriological, mycological, Tzanck) were negative; histopathology showed non-specific inflammation.
Findings:
- Nested PCR (nPCR) detected herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) DNA in both lesion swabs and paraffin-embedded tissue.
- HSV-2 was exclusively identified in the affected facial area, excluding other sites.
Implications:
- This case demonstrates that HSV-2 can cause atypical facial folliculitis even in immunocompetent individuals.
- Routine use of PCR in dermatological assessments aids in the differential diagnosis of herpetic infections.
- Early diagnosis via PCR facilitates prompt antiviral therapy and improved patient management.