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Updated: May 6, 2026
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Ex Vivo Organotypic Corneal Model of Acute Epithelial Herpes Simplex Virus Type I Infection
Published on: November 3, 2012
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Herpes simplex virus infections in preterm infants
Declan P O'Riordan1, W Christopher Golden, Susan W Aucott
1Eudowood Neonatal Pulmonary Division, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 600 N Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA.
Pediatrics
|December 5, 2006
Summary
Neonatal herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections in preterm infants often present with respiratory distress and disseminated disease, leading to high mortality. Early diagnosis and high-dose acyclovir may improve survival rates in encephalitis cases.
Area of Science:
- Neonatalogy
- Infectious Diseases
- Virology
Background:
- Neonatal herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections are a serious threat, but their presentation and outcomes in preterm infants are poorly understood.
- Preterm infants (<37 weeks gestation) may have unique vulnerabilities to HSV due to immature immune systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To define the clinical presentation and prognosis of HSV infections in preterm infants.
- To identify key diagnostic indicators and inform treatment strategies for this vulnerable population.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of hospital records for culture- or PCR-proven HSV-1 or HSV-2 infections in preterm newborns (1989-2003).
- Systematic analysis of maternal and neonatal histories, clinical signs, and laboratory findings.
Main Results:
- Ten preterm infants and one set of twins contracted HSV-2 within the first month of life.
- All nine infants with disseminated HSV disease died; three infants with encephalitis survived.
- Respiratory distress was universal, with positive respiratory viral cultures in all cases. High-dose acyclovir improved survival in encephalitis cases.
Conclusions:
- HSV infections in preterm infants typically manifest within two weeks of birth, often with respiratory distress and a high rate of disseminated disease.
- Respiratory viral cultures are effective for diagnosing HSV infection in this group.
- The high morbidity may stem from immune system immaturity; further research on antiviral therapy's role is warranted.
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