An organ transplant recipient who is receiving immunosuppressants may develop a persistent herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection. This demonstrates the role of immunity in the control of viral infections.
Clinical features:
(1) The patient is immunosuppressed because of an organ transplant.
(2) The patient develops de novo or recurrent genital lesions consistent with HSV.
(3) The lesions may be extensive and develop into painful ulcerations.
(4) The patient may require continuous or repeated therapy with anti-herpes therapy.
(5) The lesions spontaneously resolve on discontinuation of immunosuppression.
(6) The patient is at risk for disseminated HSV disease.
Laboratory features:
(1) Viral cultures or molecular assays of the lesions are persistently positive for HSV.
The patient can be a source of HSV exposure, especially to other organ transplant patients. Contact isolation may be necessary.
To read more or access our algorithms and calculators, please log in or register.
