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Updated: Nov 17, 2025
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Porcine Corneal Tissue Explant to Study the Efficacy of Herpes Simplex Virus-1 Antivirals
Published on: September 20, 2021
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SARS-CoV-2 Infection (COVID-19) and Herpes Simplex Virus-1 Conjunctivitis: Concurrent Viral Infections or a
Jarelys M Hernandez1, Hareesh Singam1, Abida Babu1
1Infectious Diseases, University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine, Tampa, USA.
Cureus
|February 12, 2021
Summary
This case study highlights an unusual presentation of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in a 69-year-old male. The patient experienced ocular symptoms and a secondary herpes simplex virus-1 infection, suggesting immune modulation by SARS-CoV-2.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Infectious Diseases
- Virology
Background:
- Pulmonary manifestations of SARS-CoV-2 are well-documented.
- Limited understanding exists regarding SARS-CoV-2's impact on multiple organ systems.
- Investigating atypical presentations is crucial for understanding viral pathogenesis.
Observation:
- A 69-year-old male with dyspnea and conjunctivitis tested positive for SARS-CoV-2.
- The patient developed a left lower eyelid ulcer and pre-septal cellulitis with abscess.
- Cultures revealed concurrent herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1) infection.
Findings:
- The patient presented with hypoxia and ocular complications.
- Treatment with antibiotics and famciclovir led to resolution of ocular symptoms.
- SARS-CoV-2 was not detected in ocular or conjunctival samples.
Implications:
- This case suggests SARS-CoV-2 may modulate the immune system, enabling opportunistic infections like HSV-1.
- Highlights the need for considering co-infections in atypical COVID-19 presentations.
- Further research is warranted on SARS-CoV-2's systemic effects and immune interactions.
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