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Clinically occult cytomegalovirus present in skin biopsy specimens in immunosuppressed hosts

T D Horn1, A F Hood

  • 1Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205.

Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology
|October 1, 1989
PubMed

Insights

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) was unexpectedly found in skin biopsies of immunocompromised patients with eruptions. Occult CMV in skin may be more common and not the sole cause of these infections.

Area of Science:

  • Dermatology
  • Virology
  • Immunology

Background:

  • Acquired immunosuppression presents diagnostic challenges for cutaneous eruptions.
  • Skin biopsies are crucial for identifying causes of skin conditions in immunocompromised individuals.

Observation:

  • Three immunocompromised patients with diverse skin eruptions underwent biopsy.
  • Unexpected amphophilic, granular, intranuclear inclusions were observed in endothelial cells.
  • These inclusions were consistent with cytomegalovirus (CMV).

Findings:

  • Cytomegalovirus (CMV) was identified in skin biopsy specimens from immunocompromised patients.
  • Occult cutaneous CMV infection may be more prevalent than previously thought.
  • CMV may not be the sole pathogen responsible for the observed skin eruptions.

Implications:

  • Highlights the potential for asymptomatic or occult cytomegalovirus (CMV) in the skin of immunocompromised hosts.
  • Underscores the importance of considering CMV in the differential diagnosis of cutaneous eruptions in immunosuppressed individuals.
  • Emphasizes the need for vigilance regarding polymicrobial infections in immunocompromised patients.

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