Herpes simplex viral hepatitis in adults: two case reports and review of the literature

Abstract

Herpes simplex viral (HSV) hepatitis is uncommon in adults. Two new cases are reported herein; a literature review revealed an additional 33 patients. Ages ranged from 13 to 87 years; the mean age was 32.6 years, and the median was 28 years. HSV hepatitis usually occurs as part of disseminated HSV infection and is characterized by fulminant hepatic necrosis with serum transaminase levels frequently elevated 100- to 1,000-fold. Disseminated intravascular coagulation was present in 90% of the cases. Outcome was poor; 86% of the patients died. Eighty-six percent of the patients had an underlying condition associated with impaired host defenses. Renal transplantation (26%), steroid use other than in renal transplant patients (26%), and pregnancy (23%) were the most frequent underlying conditions. Early recognition and prompt initiation of antiviral therapy may offer a chance for improved survival rates.