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[Herpes simplex infections in patients with AIDS]
G Roustan Gullón1, M Hospital Gil, V Roca Arbones
1Servicio de Dermatología, Hospital Clínico, San Carlos, Madrid.
Revista Clinica Espanola
|March 1, 1990
Summary
Severe Herpes Simplex virus infections in individuals with Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) present unique challenges. Intravenous drug users with AIDS experiencing persistent Herpes lesions may indicate severe cellular immunity depression, risking further opportunistic infections.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Infectious Diseases
- Dermatology
Background:
- Herpes infections in patients with Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) often manifest with increased severity, generalization, and prolonged, indolent courses.
- Understanding the clinical presentation and management of opportunistic infections in immunocompromised individuals is crucial.
Observation:
- Two cases of intravenous drug addicts with AIDS presented with chronic, months-long ulcerative perioral and ungual lesions.
- Histopathological examination confirmed Herpes Simplex virus infection in both patients.
Findings:
- Intravenous Acyclovir treatment resulted in complete remission of the Herpes lesions in both cases.
- One patient subsequently developed Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia one month after Herpes lesion remission, indicating profound cellular immunity compromise.
Implications:
- These cases highlight Herpes infections as a potential clinical indicator of severe cellular immunity depression in AIDS patients.
- Early recognition and management are vital to mitigate the risk of developing more severe, life-threatening opportunistic conditions.