Eczema Herpeticum: Clinical Insights and Pathogenesis Hypotheses on Basolateral Adhesion Proteins

Eczema herpeticum (EH) is a severe viral complication caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV) that occurs in individuals with compromised skin barriers, such as those with atopic dermatitis (AD). EH is characterized by the rapid spread of HSV across skin lesions, potentially leading to systemic involvement. Although commonly observed in the context of AD, EH can also arise in various dermatological conditions, necessitating prompt recognition and management by healthcare providers. This case report details the diagnosis and treatment of EH in a five-year-old girl with a history of AD who presents with fever and painful skin lesions. Despite the absence of confirmatory tests initially, a positive IgM anti-HSV-1 serology, combined with clinical presentation, supported the diagnosis of EH. The patient received intravenous aciclovir, resulting in significant improvement within 48 hours. This case highlights the importance of early diagnosis and treatment, particularly when confirmatory tests are not available. The report discusses the clinical presentation of EH, which includes vesicular lesions, fever, and rapid progression. The differential diagnosis includes chickenpox, impetigo, eczema vaccinatum, and contact dermatitis. Understanding the epidemiology and pathogenesis of EH, especially in relation to AD, is crucial for effective management. The case also introduces a novel hypothesis linking structural protein alterations to immune dysfunction in EH, suggesting a need for further research. Acyclovir remains the gold standard for treating EH, and timely intervention is essential. This case underscores the necessity of a diagnostic algorithm in the absence of guidelines and highlights the role of IgM serology and clinical judgment in managing suspected EH cases.