Disseminated Herpes Simplex Infection in a Neonate

Abstract

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection in a newborn is commonly due to HSV 2 and less commonly due to HSV 1.1,2 Mixed HSV 1 & 2 infection in newborn is rarely reported.3 Neonatal HSV infection can present as- a) Localized skin, eye and mouth (SEM) affection; b) Central nervous system (CNS) disease or c)Disseminated disease.1,4,5 We report an unusual case of HSV infection in a neonate due both HSV 1 & HSV 2. It led to initial manifestation just like septicemia and ultimately prolonged cholestasis that responded to acyclovir therapy.