Recurrent herpes simplex virus mimicking vulvar carcinoma in patient with Human Immunodeficiency Virus: A case report

Gynecol Oncol Rep. 2023 Jan 24:45:101142. doi: 10.1016/j.gore.2023.101142. eCollection 2023 Feb.

Abstract

Patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) are at increased risk for developing other gynecologic conditions, including herpes simplex virus (HSV) and vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN)/carcinoma. We describe the case of a woman with a history of microinvasive vulvar squamous cell carcinoma who presented with hypertrophic ulcerated vulvar and peri-anal masses concerning for malignancy. This case highlights the need to maintain a high index of suspicion for malignancy and herpes simplex virus, even with negative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test, as well as the difficulty of treating this often-resistant lesion.

Keywords: Herpes simplex virus; Human immunodeficiency virus; Vulvar carcinoma.

Publication types

  • Case Reports