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Updated: Oct 20, 2025

Ex Vivo Infection of Murine Epidermis with Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1
Published on: August 24, 2015
An Infant With Seborrhoeic Dermatitis and Eczema Herpeticum Complicated by a Generalized Infection
Katarzyna Karpierz1, Ernest P Kuchar1
1Pediatrics with Clinical Assessment Unit, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, POL.
Insights
Primary herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) infection can cause severe illness in children, particularly those with skin conditions like eczema. Early diagnosis and acyclovir treatment are crucial for managing symptoms and preventing complications.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Dermatology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Primary herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) infections in children can range from asymptomatic to severe, life-threatening conditions.
- At-risk children, especially those with atopic dermatitis, are susceptible to extensive eczema herpeticum (eruptio varicelliformis Kaposi).
- Severe manifestations include herpes simplex eye infection, encephalitis, and disseminated herpes infection.
Observation:
- A case study involving a boy with exacerbated infantile seborrhoeic dermatitis (ISD) and eczema herpeticum complicated by streptococcal sepsis is presented.
- This highlights the potential for severe secondary bacterial infections in children with compromised skin barriers and HSV-1.
Findings:
- HSV-1 infection in children can lead to severe complications, including eczema herpeticum and secondary sepsis.
- Prompt initiation of acyclovir therapy can reduce the duration of symptoms.
- Preventive measures, including educating parents on skin care and recognizing "red flag" symptoms, are vital.
Implications:
- Emphasizes the importance of recognizing severe HSV-1 manifestations in pediatric patients with underlying skin conditions.
- Highlights the need for parental education regarding skin barrier function and early medical consultation for concerning symptoms.
- Underscores the role of antiviral therapy in mitigating HSV-1 related illness severity in children.
Abstract:
Primary herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) infection in children (beyond the neonatal period) may be asymptomatic or manifest as herpetic gingivostomatitis accompanied by fever and other symptoms. However, severe, health- and life-threatening infection is observed in rare cases, especially in at-risk patients. Children with atopic dermatitis may develop extensive eczema herpeticum (eruptio varicelliformis Kaposi). Herpes simplex eye infection, herpes simplex encephalitis, and disseminated (generalized) herpes infection also pose danger. We present a boy with exacerbated infantile seborrhoeic dermatitis (ISD) and eczema herpeticum complicated by streptococcal sepsis. HSV transmission should be limited if possible by avoiding direct contact with those who recently developed lesions. Communication with parents and explaining how to properly care for the skin in a child with skin diseases that disturb its barrier function protecting against external factors is particularly important. Also, parents should be informed that "red flag" symptoms in a child should be an indication for a pediatric consultation. In the event of infection, the duration of symptoms can be reduced by promptly initiated acyclovir therapy.
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