Herpes simplex hepatitis after liver transplantation: case report and literature review

Transpl Infect Dis. 2014 Feb;16(1):130-4. doi: 10.1111/tid.12178. Epub 2014 Jan 3.

Abstract

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) hepatitis is an uncommon cause of liver failure, but may have a dramatic outcome. We herein present a case report of a liver graft infection by HSV-1 associated with liver failure and encephalitis. A complete hospital chart review of the case and a literature search were undertaken. Literature review suggests that herpes simplex acute liver failure is rare and associated with a poor prognosis, even with early treatment. Novel diagnostic and preventive approaches need to be instituted.

Keywords: acute liver failure; hepatitis; herpes simplex; liver transplant.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Acyclovir / therapeutic use
  • Antiviral Agents / therapeutic use
  • Encephalitis, Herpes Simplex / drug therapy
  • Encephalitis, Herpes Simplex / transmission*
  • Fatal Outcome
  • Hepatitis, Viral, Human / drug therapy
  • Hepatitis, Viral, Human / etiology
  • Hepatitis, Viral, Human / transmission*
  • Herpes Simplex / drug therapy
  • Herpes Simplex / transmission*
  • Herpesvirus 1, Human*
  • Humans
  • Liver Failure, Acute / etiology
  • Liver Transplantation / adverse effects*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Transplants / virology*

Substances

  • Antiviral Agents
  • Acyclovir