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  • Title: Diagnostic and therapeutic management for suspected neonatal herpes simplex virus infection.
    Author: Wolfert SI, de Jong EP, Vossen AC, Zwaveling J, Te Pas AB, Walther FJ, Lopriore E.
    Journal: J Clin Virol; 2011 May; 51(1):8-11. PubMed ID: 21388869.
    Abstract:
    BACKGROUND: Neonatal herpes simplex virus (HSV) is a rare disease associated with high mortality and morbidity rates. HSV infection can be subdivided into 3 clinical manifestations: isolated skin, eye and mouth (SEM) disease, central nervous system (CNS) disease and disseminated disease. Consensus guidelines for diagnostic and therapeutic management are not available. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the diagnostic work-up and therapeutic management in neonates with suspected or proven HSV infection. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective study of diagnostic and therapeutic management in all neonates with suspected HSV infection admitted to our neonatal nursery between January 2005 and July 2010. RESULTS: A total 53 neonates with suspected HSV infection were included in the study and classified as SEM disease (n=2), CNS disease (n=41) or disseminated disease (n=10). None of the included infants tested positive for HSV infection. Correct and complete diagnostic work-up was performed in only 11% (6/53) of the cases. All neonates were treated with intravenous acyclovir. CONCLUSIONS: None of the neonates with suspected HSV tested positive. Diagnostic management in neonates with suspected HSV infection was often improper and incomplete. Consensus guidelines to identify low-risk infants in whom HSV testing and acyclovir treatment is not warranted, are urgently needed.
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