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Unusual presentation of herpes simplex virus infection in a boxer: 'Boxing glove herpes'

Begoña García-García1, Cristina Galache-Osuna, Pablo Coto-Segura

  • 1Departments of Dermatology Internal Medicine, Central University Hospital of Asturias, Oviedo, Spain.

The Australasian Journal of Dermatology
|February 5, 2013
PubMed

Insights

This case study details a boxer with a prolonged cutaneous herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) infection on their knuckles. Transmission occurred via contaminated boxing gloves, not direct contact, highlighting an unusual route for herpes gladiatorum.

Area of Science:

  • Dermatology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Sports Medicine

Background:

  • Cutaneous herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) infections, commonly known as herpes gladiatorum or wrestler's herpes, typically spread through direct skin-to-skin contact.
  • Outbreaks are frequently observed in contact sports like wrestling and boxing.

Observation:

  • A boxer presented with unusually persistent (4-week) HSV-1 lesions on both knuckles.
  • The infection was not attributed to typical direct athletic contact.

Findings:

  • The patient's HSV-1 infection was traced to transmission via shared boxing gloves contaminated with the virus.
  • This represents a novel transmission route for herpes gladiatorum in boxers, with knuckle lesions being uncommon.

Implications:

  • Highlights the potential for indirect transmission of HSV-1 through fomites (contaminated equipment) in sports settings.
  • Emphasizes the need for awareness of non-traditional transmission pathways for herpes gladiatorum among athletes.
  • Suggests enhanced hygiene protocols for shared sports equipment may be necessary to prevent outbreaks.

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