complications

Last reviewed 01/2018

These include:

  • local extension
  • extragenital spread - to the buttocks, fingers or eye seen in 20%
  • CNS:
    • aseptic meningitis, much more common with HSV II, occurring in perhaps 20% of patients, 5% needing hospitalisation
    • autonomic dysfunction - hyperaesthesia, anaesthesia, difficulty in micturition and defaecation

  • rare complications:
    • erythema multiforme
    • monoarthritis
    • hepatitis
    • thrombocytopaenia
    • spread to preexisting lesions

  • 10% of lesions become superinfected with bacteria or candida