The Expanding Organ Tropism of Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1

Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) infection is highly prevalent, with more than 70% of the global population seropositive. HSV-1 commonly infects the skin, eyes, and neurons, as well as immune cells such as dendritic cells; however, an expanding tissue tropism is observed, suggesting that its clinical impact may be vastly underestimated. This calls for a critical reappraisal of the risks posed by this ubiquitous virus. Here, we discuss current findings linking HSV-1 to a broad spectrum of organs, including the heart, lungs, intestines, and liver, as well as several clinical effects and diseases, which demand an in-depth analysis of HSV-1 pathogenesis with a critical focus on its pressing clinical implications. Recognising the broad disease spectrum of HSV-1 could help better guide diagnosis and treatment, given the availability of antiviral treatments for this virus.