No footprint too small: case of intrauterine herpes simplex virus infection

Abstract Objectives To describe the case of a preterm infant with intrauterine HSV infection. To discuss the epidemiology, features and complications associated with intrauterine HSV infection by conducting a review of medical literature. Case presentation A preterm male infant was born with diffuse skin erosions in various stages of healing suggestive of denuded bullae. Prenatal ultrasound showed evolving fetal cerebral ventriculomegaly, suspected Dandy-Walker malformation, and oligohydramnios. Neonatal skin swabs were positive for herpes simplex virus type 2 by polymerase chain reaction and the patient was treated with intravenous acyclovir from birth. Cranial ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging findings showed severe progressive ex-vacuo ventricular dilatation consistent with intrauterine herpes simplex infection. Due to those findings and progressive multi-organ dysfunction, care was redirected to a palliative path and the child expired at 21 days of age. In retrospect, the mother had a few atypical vesicles on the left hand 4–5 weeks prior to delivery with a presumptive diagnosis of pompholyx. Conclusions Although confirmed intrauterine herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections are very rare, the potentially devastating prognosis and complications as evidenced by our case show that awareness of intrauterine HSV is critical for pediatricians as well as physicians involved in antenatal care. In order to adequately assess, treat and counsel pregnant women, more work is required to detect HSV infection, evaluate possible congenital infection and improve outcomes with fetal and neonatal treatment.