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Recurrent herpes simplex virus type 2 infection of the hand complicated by persistent lymphoedema
Author(s) -
Fletcher Penelope Gail,
Sterling Jane Carolyn
Publication year - 2005
Publication title -
australasian journal of dermatology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.67
H-Index - 53
eISSN - 1440-0960
pISSN - 0004-8380
DOI - 10.1111/j.1440-0960.2005.00155.x
Subject(s) - medicine , cellulitis , herpes simplex virus , complication , forearm , dermatology , differential diagnosis , surgery , cellulite , virus , virology , pathology
SUMMARY A 33‐year‐old, immunocompetent woman had recurrent herpes simplex virus reactivation of the right hand presenting with a cellulitis‐like picture. She continued to have monthly debilitating recrudescences for more than 3 years until an adequate dosage of prophylactic antiviral therapy was achieved. After 2 years of repeated episodes she had chronic dull pain and developed persistent acquired lymphoedema of the left hand and forearm, which is an extremely rare complication. This case highlights the need for herpes simplex infection of the hand to be included in the differential diagnosis of bacterial cellulitis in order for appropriate and prompt therapy to be achieved.