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Congenital herpes simplex virus, type 2, bilateral endophthalmitis
Metabolic, Pediatric, and Systemic Ophthalmology
|January 1, 1982
Summary
This study reports a rare case of neonatal herpes simplex encephalitis in dizygotic twins. One twin died from disseminated herpes infection, while the other had a milder infection.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal infections
- Ophthalmology
- Virology
Background:
- Premature birth presents increased risks for neonatal infections.
- Herpes simplex virus (HSV) can cause severe neonatal disease.
Observation:
- Dizygotic twins born prematurely developed herpes simplex encephalitis shortly after birth.
- One twin presented with severe ocular involvement (keratoconjunctivitis, endophthalmitis) and disseminated infection, leading to death.
- The second twin experienced a milder disseminated HSV infection without ocular complications.
Findings:
- Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) was isolated from multiple sites in the affected twin, including conjunctiva, cerebrospinal fluid, nasopharynx, and trachea.
- Histological examination of the eyes revealed bilateral endophthalmitis and necrotizing retinitis.
- Intranuclear inclusion bodies and HSV particles were identified in ocular tissues via light and electron microscopy, confirming viral presence.
Implications:
- This case highlights the potential severity of neonatal herpes simplex virus infection, particularly with ocular involvement.
- Maternal history of genital herpes may increase the risk of congenital or perinatal HSV transmission.
- Prompt diagnosis and management are crucial for improving outcomes in neonatal herpes simplex encephalitis.