Herpes simplex virus infections in the neonate.

OBJECTIVE

To review the experience of the Camperdown Children's Hospital with neonatal herpes simplex viral (HSV) infections between 1960 and 1992.

DESIGN

A retrospective record review of all cases of HSV infection.

RESULTS

Fifteen proven HSV infections were found. Only three cases had a definite history of HSV infection during pregnancy. Six were delivered at 36 weeks gestation or earlier. Seven weighed 2500 g or less. Forty-three per cent developed physical signs within 7 days of birth. Three cases were confined to skin, eyes and mouth, five were generalized, six had encephalitis with or without skin lesions, and one had pneumonitis. The mortality rate comprising the five with generalized infection was 47%, one with encephalitis and the one with pneumonitis. Four of the eight survivors have persisting neurological impairment. Those with disseminated infection and encephalitis did poorly regardless of antiviral treatment.

CONCLUSION

A high index of suspicion of HSV infection is important so that antiviral treatment can be commenced early, particularly for those infections localized to skin, eye and mouth where there may be a good prognosis.