Herpes Simplex Pneumonitis Presenting As Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome and Septic Shock

We present a case report of a 72-year-old female with a history of stage III rectal adenocarcinoma undergoing chemotherapy who developed neutropenic sepsis and acute respiratory failure. The patient was admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) due to worsening respiratory status and was subsequently diagnosed with disseminated herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection including acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). This case highlights the challenges in diagnosing and managing HSV infection in critically ill patients and emphasizes the importance of early recognition and appropriate treatment in improving patient outcomes. This case underscores the significance of considering viral etiologies, such as HSV, in patients with unexplained respiratory symptoms presenting as ARDS.