Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 24, 2026
08:53
Recurrent Escherichia coli Urinary Tract Infection Triggered by Gardnerella vaginalis Bladder Exposure in Mice
Published on: December 4, 2020
Acute urinary retention due to HSV-1: a case report.
P Mancino1, M Dalessandro, K Falasca
1Clinic of Infectious Diseases, University of Chieti, Italy.
Le Infezioni in Medicina
|April 11, 2009
Summary
Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) can cause acute urinary retention and neurological bladder dysfunction in immunocompetent individuals. This case highlights HSV-1 as a potential cause of these urinary tract complications.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Urology
Background:
- Complications of the urinary tract nervous system due to Varicella-Zoster Virus (VZV) and Herpes Simplex Virus type 2 (HSV-2) are recognized, often leading to acute urinary retention and neuropathic pain.
- However, similar conditions specifically linked to Herpes Simplex Virus type 1 (HSV-1) infection have not been clearly established.
Observation:
- A 32-year-old immunocompetent patient presented with fever, lumbar pain, and acute urinary retention without prior herpetic manifestations.
- Urodynamic studies indicated a neurological bladder with impaired filling sensation.
- Cystoscopy revealed reddened, isolated mucosal areas in the bladder walls.
Findings:
- Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) assays of plasma and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) confirmed the presence of HSV-1.
- The patient's condition resolved after antiviral therapy and intermittent catheterization.
- Voiding dysfunction resolved within three weeks of symptom onset.
Implications:
- This case suggests that HSV-1 can cause neurological damage to the central and/or peripheral nervous systems, leading to urinary tract complications.
- It underscores the importance of considering HSV-1 in the differential diagnosis of acute urinary retention and neurological bladder dysfunction, even in immunocompetent individuals.
- The benign and self-remitting course of this patient's disease offers valuable insight into HSV-1-related neurological sequelae.
Related Concept Videos
01:23Genital Herpes
Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted infection primarily caused by herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2), though herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) is increasingly implicated in genital infections, particularly among younger populations. Transmission occurs mainly through sexual contact, with asymptomatic viral shedding serving as a major route of spread. This characteristic makes HSV-2 difficult to control at a population level, as individuals may unknowingly transmit the virus even in the...
01:28Herpes
Herpes simplex type 1 (HSV‑1) is a widespread pathogen responsible for orolabial lesions. It is an enveloped, double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) virus belonging to the family Herpesviridae. Once the virus infects a host cell, its double‑stranded DNA genome is delivered into the nucleus, where a coordinated cascade of immediate‑early, early, and late gene expression directs viral DNA replication, structural protein synthesis, and virion assembly. After primary infection of epithelial cells, HSV-1...
01:26Nursing Assessment of the Genitourinary System II: Inspection and Palpation
The nursing assessment of the genitourinary (GU) system involves a systematic inspection and palpation to identify abnormalities in the kidneys, bladder, and surrounding structures.InspectionMouth: Inspect for signs of kidney dysfunction, such as stomatitis (inflammation of the mouth) and ammonia breath, which may occur in advanced kidney disease due to the buildup of urea, breaking down into ammonia.Skin: Check for pallor, which could indicate anemia caused by kidney disease. Look for...
01:21Nursing Assessment of the Genitourinary System I: Health History
The genitourinary system is critical to maintaining fluid balance, waste elimination, and reproductive function. Nurses play a vital role in assessing this system, beginning with a thorough health history. This process involves gathering patient information, identifying risk factors, and recognizing symptoms of genitourinary disorders. Early detection is vital for timely interventions and management.1. Gathering Patient InformationA complete health history includes the patient’s personal,...
01:17Urinary Tract Infection IV: Nursing Management
In managing urinary tract infections (UTIs) in nursing, a comprehensive assessment is essential. Begin by gathering subjective data, such as the patient’s complaints of dysuria (painful urination), urinary frequency, urgency, suprapubic pain, and any lower abdominal discomfort. This information can be complemented by questions regarding previous UTIs, sexual activity, and personal hygiene practices, which can provide insight into risk factors. Objective assessment should focus on signs like...
01:23Urinary Bladder
The urinary bladder is a hollow, muscular sac that temporarily stores urine before it is expelled from the body. It can hold approximately 600 mL of urine prior to micturition. The bladder is retroperitoneal and located behind the pubic symphysis in the pelvic floor.
In males, the bladder is situated in front of the rectum, while in females, it is positioned anterior to the vagina and uterus. The bladder floor contains an inverted triangular area called the trigone, defined by the two ureteric...
In males, the bladder is situated in front of the rectum, while in females, it is positioned anterior to the vagina and uterus. The bladder floor contains an inverted triangular area called the trigone, defined by the two ureteric...