Recurrent herpes simplex virus type 2 encephalitis in a preterm neonate. Favourable outcome after prolonged acyclovir treatment.

We describe a case of recurrent herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) central nervous system infection in a preterm neonate. On two occasions, encephalitis occurred together with eruption of vesicles on the right arm, and the patient was treated with acyclovir. New recurrences of vesicles followed each attempt to discontinue antiviral treatment, and prompted a continuous long-term acyclovir prophylaxis. At three years of age, the patient has developed normally. The use of immunoblotting for serologic diagnosis of neonatal HSV-2 infection is demonstrated.