Congenital herpes simplex type II infection with extensive hepatic calcification, bone lesions and cataracts: complete postmortem examination

Abstract

True congenital herpes simplex viral (HSV) infections have been reported infrequently and have been associated with various 'congenital' malformations. Microcephaly, microphthalmia, intracranial calcifications, chorioretinitis, congenital heart disease and abnormal digits have been associated with presumed congenital HSV infection. This report describes the clinical and pathological features of an infant with a congenital type-II HSV infection. In addition to the findings previously reported with this form of HSV infection, extensive hepatic calcifications, osseous lesions and cataracts were observed for the first time. The effect of congenital HSV infection on the developing central nervous system is discussed.