HSV 1 OR 2

• Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV 1 or 2)

  • Enveloped viruses - double stranded linear DNA 
  • Held at bay by the cell mediated immune response
  • Serologic test not helpful bc antibodies against HSV-1 and 2 cannot be differentiated and infected individuals may possess the antibody
• Cytopathic Effect of HSV 1 or 2

  May remain latent within cells like wbc
• Specimen for diagnosis for HSV 1 or 2

  Lesions or conjunctival scrapings 
• HSV-1 may cause:

  • lesions above the waistline 
  • Gingivostomatitis
  • Pharyngitis 
  • Herpes Labialis (recurrent) 
  • Herpetic whitlow 
  • Keratitis
  • Encephalitis (in older children and adults) 
  • Leading cause of fatal sporadic encephalitis in the united states 
  • Leading causes of corneal infection in US 
  • Transmitted via respiratory secretions including saliva
• HSV-2

  • Common in wrestlers / boxing 
  • Other contact sports (rugby) known as scrum pox (Herpes Rugbeirum)
  • MOT - direct contact from skin lesions 
  • Appears in the head or neck groin
• Eczema herpeticum

  • Found in children with active eczema, pre-existing atopic dermatitis, can be spread over the skin at the site of eczema lesions 
  • Similar disease may also be caused by vaccinia (eczema vaccinatum)
• HSV proctitis

  Inflammation of rectum and anus
• HSV Encephalitis

  • Usually in HSV 1
  • Most common sporadic viral encephalitis
• HSV meningitis

  • Aseptic meningitis 
  • Viral 
  • Virus produces lesions on the genitals, urethra and bladder 
  • HSV-2 may also cause meningitis or encephalitis
  • sometimes called neonatal herpes, genital herpes