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Intrauterine herpes simplex virus infection
1Department of Pediatrics, University of Alabama, Birmingham 35294.
Teratology
|January 1, 1989
Summary
Intrauterine herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection, though less common, presents at birth with distinct symptoms. Early recognition of this neonatal HSV form is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment.
Area of Science:
- Neonatalogy
- Infectious Diseases
- Virology
Background:
- Neonatal herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection is typically acquired during birth (intrapartum).
- A less common form, intrauterine HSV infection, is now recognized.
- Intrauterine infection presents earlier, within 24-48 hours of life.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the characteristics of intrauterine HSV infection.
- To increase physician awareness regarding intrauterine HSV infection in newborns.
- To differentiate intrauterine from intrapartum HSV infection.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent findings on intrauterine HSV infection.
- Clinical observation of neonatal cases.
- Analysis of disease onset and associated symptoms.
Main Results:
- Intrauterine HSV infection manifests within the first 24-48 hours of life.
- Associated symptoms include skin vesicles/scarring, chorioretinitis, and hydraencephaly.
- Intrauterine infection accounts for approximately 5% of neonatal HSV cases.
Conclusions:
- Enhanced physician awareness is vital for evaluating newborns with suspected intrauterine infection.
- Prompt recognition of intrauterine HSV infection is critical for management.
- Understanding the distinct presentation of intrauterine HSV infection improves neonatal care.