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Updated: May 15, 2026
12:22
A Primary Neuron Culture System for the Study of Herpes Simplex Virus Latency and Reactivation
Published on: April 2, 2012
Lethal herpes simplex virus type 1 hepatitis in a normal adult
Gastroenterology
|March 1, 1979
Summary
A fatal case of human herpes simplex virus type 1 hepatitis occurred without typical skin lesions. Early diagnosis via liver biopsy may allow antiviral treatment for this severe infection.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Virology
- Pathology
Background:
- Fulminant hepatic necrosis is a rare but severe liver condition.
- Human herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) can cause hepatitis, though typically in neonates or immunocompromised individuals.
Observation:
- A fatal case of HSV-1 hepatitis presented with severe liver necrosis, coagulopathy, leukopenia, and thrombocytopenia.
- The patient lacked the characteristic mucocutaneous herpetic lesions often associated with HSV infections.
Findings:
- Liver biopsy was crucial in establishing a presumptive diagnosis of HSV-1 hepatitis in this case.
- Comparison with previously reported cases highlights the atypical presentation without mucocutaneous lesions.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering HSV-1 hepatitis in severe liver failure, even without typical skin manifestations.
- Early diagnosis and prompt antiviral therapy could potentially improve outcomes for this often-fatal infection.
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