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Neonatal herpes simplex virus death manifested as rapidly progressive pneumonia
Clinical Pediatrics
|July 1, 1984
Summary
A neonate developed severe herpes simplex virus (HSV) pneumonia without other signs of infection, highlighting a critical diagnostic challenge. This case underscores the potential for rapid progression of neonatal HSV, emphasizing the need for early recognition.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal Medicine
- Virology
- Pediatric Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection in neonates can lead to severe disease.
- Pneumonia is a known manifestation of neonatal HSV, but often presents with other localized signs.
Observation:
- A 37-week-old infant presented with overwhelming pneumonia and subsequent complications, leading to death.
- Viral cultures confirmed herpes simplex virus (HSV) from multiple sites post-mortem.
- The infant's mother had no signs of HSV at delivery but developed lesions postpartum.
Findings:
- The infant's illness was attributed to probable herpes simplex virus (HSV) pneumonia.
- The most likely source of infection was the maternal birth canal.
- Nosocomial acquisition was considered but not substantiated.
Implications:
- Neonatal HSV can manifest solely as rapidly progressive pneumonia, lacking other typical clinical indicators.
- This case highlights the importance of considering HSV in unexplained neonatal pneumonia.
- Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for improving outcomes in neonatal HSV infections.