Herpes Simplex Virus Hepatitis

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) hepatitis is an uncommon complication of adult HSV-1 or HSV-2 infection. It typically occurs in during the third trimester of pregnancy or in immunocompromised patients. Genital lesions in pregnant women can cause transmission to the fetus or neonate which may lead to necrotizing hepatitis. The clinical features resemble those of septic endotoxic shock. Nonspecific clinical features often delay diagnosis until acute liver failure with massive hepatic necrosis ensues. Macroscopically, the liver is enlarged and the cut surface is mottled with numerous yellow lesions corresponding to irregular zones of coagulative necrosis - the hallmark of HSV hepatitis. Image Copyright: pathorama.ch.