Neonatal herpes simplex

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Neonatal herpes simplex

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Questions

USMLE® Step 1 style questions USMLE

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A 6-day-old male infant is brought to the emergency department after an episode of generalized seizure. He has also experienced lethargy and poor feeding. The mother had limited access to prenatal care. The patient was delivered at home by a midwife. During the third trimester of pregnancy, the mother developed multiple painful genital lesions that persisted until labor. Temperature is 40.1°C (104.2°F), blood pressure is 70/50 mmHg, pulse is 140/min, and respiratory rate is 37/min. Weight is at the 20th percentile, and head circumference is at the 40th percentile. The anterior fontanelle is open, and facial features appear normal. Ulcerative lesions are present over the tongue and oral mucosa. Examination of the skin is shown below. A lumbar puncture is performed, and cerebrospinal fluid analysis is notable for mononuclear pleocytosis and an elevated protein level. Which of the following agents is most likely responsible for this patient's presentation?
   Image reproduced from CDC Public Health Library 

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Summary

Neonatal herpes simplex is a rare but serious infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV) that affects newborn babies. It can be transmitted to the baby during childbirth if the mother is infected with HSV, usually through genital herpes.

Symptoms of neonatal herpes simplex may include fever, difficulty feeding, irritability, and lethargy. The infection can also cause skin rashes, sores on the skin and mucous membranes, and eye infections. In severe cases, neonatal herpes simplex can cause serious complications, such as meningoencephalitis, organ failure, and death.

Treatment for neonatal herpes simplex typically involves antiviral medications and supportive care, such as intravenous fluids and pain management.