Neonatal Herpes Simplex Virus Keratitis: Bitter Lessons from a Case Report

Neonatal herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection is an uncommon but potentially devastating condition. Ocular involvement, particularly herpetic keratitis, can cause significant morbidity if not promptly recognized and treated. We present a case of isolated HSV-1 keratitis in a 25-day-old neonate successfully managed with intravenous acyclovir; however, the patient subsequently developed HSV encephalitis. This case underscores the importance of considering HSV infection in neonates presenting with ocular symptoms, even in the absence of systemic manifestations, and highlights the risk of late-onset complications.