Cutaneous perianal herpes simplex virus infection mimicking condylomata acuminata in a renal transplant recipient: A case report and literature review

Abstract

Key Clinical Message Herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection can present atypically in immunosuppressed patients, such as renal transplant recipients, often mimicking conditions like condyloma acuminata. This case report of a 39‐year‐old male renal transplant recipient underscores the importance of maintaining a high level of clinical suspicion and employing thorough diagnostic techniques, including skin biopsy and polymerase chain reaction, to accurately diagnose chronic lesions and those not responding to initial therapies in these patients. Timely initiation of antiviral therapy, such as intravenous acyclovir, is crucial for improving patient outcomes. Clinicians should be aware of the diverse presentations of HSV in immunocompromised individuals to ensure prompt and effective treatment. Abstract Herpes simplex virus (HSV) has a worldwide distribution and a wide range of clinical presentations. In immunosuppressed patients, the infection can have atypical presentations. We report a 39‐year‐old renal transplant recipient male with a cutaneous HSV infection mimicking condyloma acuminata. The diagnosis was confirmed by skin biopsy and polymerase chain reaction. The patient was treated with intravenous acyclovir. This case illustrates the significant clinical challenges in establishing a correct diagnosis of this common infection in these patients. A high level of clinical suspicion will result in a prompt diagnosis and timely initiation of antiviral therapy, which is crucial to better patient outcomes.

Keywords

• condyloma acuminata
• herpes simplex virus (HSV)
• herpes vegetans
• verrucous