Herpes simplex: cicatricial type

Abstract

An example of a cicatricial form of recurrent herpes simplex is presented. Although the initial appearance of the lesions was identical with non-scarring forms of herpes simplex, this patient's lesions progressed insidiously to eschar formation. Healing was delayed for four to seven weeks, with subsequent atrophic scar formation. Scarring and local recurrence could be prevented by curettage, and acridine orange and ultraviolet light therapy within 48 hours of an attack. Other modalities employed over a fourteen year period were largely ineffectual. It was concluded that the ulceration and scar formation were an intrinsic part of the herpetic process in this patient.