Pediatric herpes simplex masquerading as varicella-zoster

Ann Ophthalmol. 1989 Feb;21(2):47-8.

Abstract

A three-year-old girl developed a generalized cutaneous Herpes simplex infection and a dendritic corneal ulcer. The clinical appearance of the lesions led to the diagnosis of varicella by a pediatrician and of Herpes zoster corneal ulcer by an ophthalmologist, who prescribed topical adrenocorticosteroids. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and cultures were positive for the Herpes simplex virus. Topical antiviral treatment was applied, and the lesions healed without significant sequelae.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Chickenpox / diagnosis*
  • Child, Preschool
  • Cornea / pathology
  • Corneal Opacity / diagnosis
  • Corneal Ulcer / diagnosis*
  • Diagnostic Errors
  • Female
  • Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus / diagnosis*
  • Humans
  • Keratitis, Dendritic / diagnosis*