Hemophagocytic syndrome caused by primary herpes simplex virus 1 infection: report of a first case.
Infection
; 38(5): 423-6, 2010 Oct.
Article
in En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-20602145
ABSTRACT
INTRODUCTION:
Hemophagocytic syndrome represents a severe hyperinflammatory condition by activated macrophages. Leading viral triggering agents are Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), cytomegalovirus (CMV), and adenovirus. MATERIALS ANDMETHODS:
We present a patient with Wegener's granulomatosis on azathioprine and prednisone medication, who developed a life-threatening hemophagocytic syndrome. Positive plasma polymerase chain reaction (PCR) with negative serology revealed a primary, disseminated infection with herpes simplex virus-1 as the triggering pathogen. After treatment with acyclovir, high-dose steroids, immunoglobulins, and etoposide, the patient recovered.CONCLUSION:
Early diagnosis of potentially underlying infections of hemophagocytic syndrome influences the therapeutic approach. It is important to consider a variety of infectious agents, particularly in immunosuppressed individuals. The reported case emphasizes the importance of screening for herpes simplex virus 1.
Full text:
1
Collection:
01-internacional
Database:
MEDLINE
Main subject:
Herpesvirus 1, Human
/
Lymphohistiocytosis, Hemophagocytic
/
Herpes Simplex
Type of study:
Screening_studies
Limits:
Humans
/
Male
/
Middle aged
Language:
En
Journal:
Infection
Year:
2010
Document type:
Article
Affiliation country:
Suiza