Eczema herpeticum

Synonym:

Kaposi's varicelliform eruption

Eczema herpeticum is herpes simplex virus spreading in areas of a pre-existing dermatologic condition, most commonly atopic dermatitis.
Eczematous patches can be seeded with the virus, causing a generalized cutaneous herpes simplex infection. Despite the diffuse nature of the skin involvement, spontaneous clearance is usual without treatment.

Treatment:

• While self resolution is the norm, most physicians would treat with oral acyclovir, in the adult 400 mg po, 5 times daily.

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