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Updated: May 7, 2026
04:41
Plaquing of Herpes Simplex Viruses
Published on: November 5, 2021
A not so simplex case of genital herpes
K E J Philip1, A Goodman, S N S Pallawela
1Department of Virology, Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.
BMJ Case Reports
|October 8, 2013
Summary
Varicella zoster virus (human herpesvirus 3) can cause painful genital lesions resembling herpes simplex virus infections in HIV-positive individuals. Early virological diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Virology
- Dermatology
Background:
- Genital lesions in HIV-positive individuals can stem from various causes.
- Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is a common cause of ano-genital ulcerative disease.
Observation:
- A 28-year-old HIV-positive woman presented with painful vesicular and ulcerating ano-genital lesions.
- The lesions clinically mimicked herpes simplex infection.
Findings:
- Varicella zoster virus (VZV), also known as human herpesvirus 3, was identified as the causative agent.
- Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) confirmed VZV infection.
Implications:
- Herpes zoster should be included in the differential diagnosis of genital lesions, especially in immunocompromised patients.
- Prompt virological diagnosis is essential for appropriate management and treatment of VZV ano-genital infections.
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