Herpes simplex virus infection conjunctivitis

Herpesviruses range in size from 120 to 300 nm and have DNA genomes and outer lipid membranes (envelopes). As enveloped viruses, herpesviruses are sensitive to drying and adverse conditions. Herpesviruses are spread by inoculation of susceptible mucous membranes or direct cell-to-cell contact. Over 100 herpesviruses have been identified, but only 5 cause human eye infections with any frequency herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1), herpes simplex virus-2 (HSV-2), varicella zoster virus (VZV), cytomegalovirus (CMV), and Epstein-Barr virus. Herpesviruses can cause blepharitis, conjunctivitis, epithelial and stromal keratitis, uveitis, retinitis, and ARN. HSV-1 is the most frequent cause of primary and recurrent eye disease. The host immime system influences the rates of reactivation. Immimocompromised patients tend to have more frequent reactivations and more severe disease manifestations. The strain of virus also affects the... 

Adenovirus and herpes simplex virus (HSV) are the most common causes of viral conjunctivitis. The frequency of infection by one of these organisms varies depending on the particular region s climate and other environmental factors. Box 25-1 summarizes the most significant ocular infectious agents. 

Herpes Simplex Virus Ophthalmia Neonatorum. HSY infection is an uncommon but important cause of neonatal infection and is associated with conjunctivitis in 5% to 10% of cases.The clinical manifestations are nonspecific and include conjimctival hyperemia, chemosis, periorbital edema, and mucous discharge. Corneal involvement is not uncommon and can include dendritic, geographic, or stromal keratitis. Herpetic ophthalmia neonatorum represents a primary herpetic infection. Central nervous system involvement, encephalitis, retinitis, optic neuritis, uveitis, choroiditis, and a fetal viremia can be serious sequelae of primary herpetic infections. 

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