Identification of a herpes simplex virus-induced dendrite in an eye-bank donor cornea

Cornea. 1999 Jul;18(4):489-92. doi: 10.1097/00003226-199907000-00016.

Abstract

Purpose: To demonstrate the presence of an active herpetic dendrite in an eye-bank cornea.

Case report: One eye-bank cornea was studied. Viral cultures and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing were performed 4 days after tissue preservation. The presence or absence of herpes simplex virus (HSV) type 1 was investigated.

Results: The presence of an active HSV dendrite in an eye-bank cornea was verified. HSV type 1 was confirmed using PCR amplification and restriction endonuclease DNA fragment analysis.

Conclusion: This case suggests that HSV may remain viable in stored corneal tissue at 4 degrees C.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Cornea / pathology*
  • Cornea / virology
  • Corneal Transplantation
  • DNA Fragmentation
  • DNA, Viral / analysis
  • Eye Banks*
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Herpesvirus 1, Human / genetics*
  • Herpesvirus 1, Human / isolation & purification
  • Humans
  • Keratitis, Dendritic / diagnosis*
  • Keratitis, Dendritic / virology
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Polymerase Chain Reaction
  • Tissue Donors*

Substances

  • DNA, Viral