Case 1: Herpes Simplex Virus Infection

Case-Based Modules
Initial Evaluation
Dermatologic Manifestations
Oral Manifestations
OIs: Prophylaxis
OIs: Treatment
Antiretroviral Rx
Antiretroviral Rx: Resistance
Antiretroviral Rx: Adverse Effects
Drug-Drug Interactions
Postexposure Prophylaxis
Perinatal Transmission
Special Populations
Prevention for Positives
Challenging Unknowns
Interactive Tutorials
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Question | Discussion | References | CME Credit

You answered:

	The diagnosis of chronic (longer than 4 weeks) ulcerative herpes simplex is an AIDS-defining condition, regardless of CD4 cell count.

This answer is correct, but another answer is also correct. The Centers for Disease Control's case definition for AIDS (Category C) includes HSV chronic ulcer(s) greater than 1 month's duration, regardless of the patient's CD4 cell count.

	When performing a fluorescent antibody (FA) and culture for HSV, scraping the base of the lesion will provide a higher yield than obtaining exudative fluid.
	The most appropriate therapy for this lesion would be valganciclovir (Valcyte) 900 mg PO bid x 4 weeks.
	Answers A and C are correct.

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