Herpes simplex laryngitis: Comparison between pediatric and adult patients

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Otolaryngology
• Pediatrics

Background:

• Herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection commonly causes oral and genital symptoms.
• HSV can also affect the larynx, leading to severe aerodigestive issues.
• HSV laryngitis is rare, with poorly understood symptoms and clinical course.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize HSV laryngitis presentations and clinical outcomes.
• To improve clinician understanding and recognition of HSV laryngitis.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature search was conducted across MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews.
• Data on patient demographics, symptoms, treatments, and clinical course were extracted from identified studies.

Main Results:

• 36 patients (17 pediatric, 19 adult) across 31 studies were analyzed.
• Pediatric patients were more likely to present with stridor, while adults commonly had dysphagia and dysphonia.
• Adults had a higher likelihood of tracheotomy, and both groups experienced multi-week hospital stays.

Conclusions:

• HSV laryngitis exhibits distinct pediatric and adult presentations but is nonspecific, causing diagnostic delays.
• The condition leads to significant morbidity, including extended hospitalization and tracheostomy risk.
• Increased clinical awareness of HSV laryngitis as a complication of HSV infection is crucial.