Abstract
Purpose::
To explore the possibility of seasonal variation of anterior segment herpes simplex virus (HSV) primary and secondary infections.
Methods::
A retrospective chart review of patient charts that had been coded for HSV infection between the dates of November 1, 2001 and September 30, 2006 at our institution was undertaken. Demographic data, data regarding the immune status of the patient, month of infection or re-infection, average temperature during that month, treatment, duration of infection, and type of anterior segment pathology were recorded.
Results::
Thirty-three patients were identified including 27 primary infections and 44 episodes of recurrence. The most common months for primary infection were August (6/27, 22.2%) and May (5/27, 18.5%). Only 1/27 (3.7%) of the total cases of primary infection were identified between October, November, and December. For secondary infections, 8/44 cases (18.2%) occurred in January and February had 7/44 cases (15.9%). There were 8/44 (18.2%) cases between October, November, and December. The most common average monthly temperature when primary HSV infection occurred was 71-80° Fahrenheit representing 10/27 (37.0%) of these cases. For secondary infections, 12/44 cases (27.3%) occurred during months whose average monthly temperature was 31-40° Fahrenheit.
Conclusions::
There appears to be seasonal and temperature differences in primary and secondary infections of the anterior segment caused by HSV.
Keywords: herpes simplex virus • keratitis • anterior segment