Herpes simplex virus blepharitis - External and Internal Eye
See also in: Cellulitis DDxAlerts and Notices
Synopsis
The spectrum of ocular herpetic disease also includes conjunctivitis, iritis, and keratitis. Epithelial keratitis involves only the superficial layer of the cornea and is usually caused by active virus replication, while stromal keratitis involves deeper layers of the cornea affected by immunologic responses. Both can lead to corneal scarring and vision loss.
Primary ocular HSV infections occur most often in children. They are usually unilateral, mild infections that often go unrecognized, although they may present as blepharitis or blepharoconjunctivitis. Most symptomatic attacks are recurrences, more commonly presenting as a keratitis, although there have been several reports of recurrent HSV blepharitis.
The treatment of HSV blepharitis is supportive as most cases are self-limiting and resolve within 2-3 weeks. Corneal involvement with HSV, discussed elsewhere, necessitates treatment with antiviral agents to prevent complications.
HSV blepharitis can be differentiated from preseptal or orbital cellulitis on the basis of vesicles and ulcerations.
Immunocompromised Patient Considerations:
- Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) patients have a higher rate of incidence and recurrence of HSV ocular disease (mainly reported for keratitis) and may take longer to heal, but the ocular manifestations of the disease are not notably more severe.
- Generally speaking, in the immunocompromised patient, HSV infections can present the same as in the immunocompetent patient or manifest with thick hemorrhagic crusts, eschars, persistent large erosions, or ulcers. Widespread dissemination to skin and internal organs, including lungs and liver, may occur (see disseminated HSV). In patients with HIV / AIDS, HSV infections can be severe and chronic.
Codes
ICD10CM:B00.59 – Other herpesviral disease of eye
SNOMEDCT:
186544000 – Herpes simplex eyelid dermatitis
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Diagnostic Pearls
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Differential Diagnosis & Pitfalls
- Other viral causes of blepharitis, such as herpes zoster (VZV; usually occurs in older adults) and adenovirus
- Preseptal cellulitis / orbital cellulitis
- Contact dermatitis
- Hordeolum
- Dacryocystitis
- Molluscum contagiosum
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Last Reviewed:09/08/2019
Last Updated:09/18/2019
Last Updated:09/18/2019
Patient Information for Herpes simplex virus blepharitis - External and Internal Eye
Overview
Ninety percent of the adult population of the United States has been exposed to herpes simplex virus (HSV). It is very contagious and very common worldwide. After your first infection with HSV, it remains dormant in your body and can become reactivated periodically.HSV first and recurrent infections present as small blisters on the skin or mucous membranes. HSV blisters often appear in the mouth as cold sores, but the mucous membranes of the eyes can be affected as well.
HSV blepharitis is infection of the eyelids. It is an early sign of HSV eye infection. It may be accompanied by conjunctivitis (pinkeye) or other eye lesions.
Detection and treatment is important since HSV eye infection can cause blindness.
Who’s At Risk
HSV is a common virus, particularly among infants and young children. Adults may acquire HSV through close contact with mucous membranes (eyes, mouth, lips, genitals) of infected individuals. Persons with impaired immune systems or transplant patients may be more susceptible to acquiring the infection.Signs & Symptoms
Herpes simplex blepharitis presents as swollen, red eyelids with small, irregularly shaped blisters. The eyelids may be painful or tender. Eyes may be teary and crusty. Tiny blisters may appear beyond the eyelid on the surrounding skin.Self-Care Guidelines
Keep in mind that you are contagious. Avoid the spread of infection to others. Do not wear contact lenses until the infection has cleared up.When to Seek Medical Care
If you have symptoms that may be related to HSV exposure, if you think you may be having a recurrence of an earlier herpetic eye infection, or you experience eye swelling or infection symptoms, contact your doctor.Treatments
Your health care provider may refer you to an eye doctor who may perform tests to rule out a more serious corneal infection.You may be instructed to use a warm saline compress with drying medication to provide relief. Additionally, you may be prescribed an antibiotic ointment or eye drops.
If you have recurrent HSV blepharitis that returns more than twice, your doctor may recommend preventive medicine.
Herpes simplex virus blepharitis - External and Internal Eye
See also in: Cellulitis DDx