Living with Congenital herpes simplex virus infection
A group of problems in a baby caused by a herpes virus infection passed from the mother during or around pregnancy.
Understanding Congenital herpes simplex virus infection
The virus often causes repeated skin infections in adults, usually on the lips or genitals. Infections in other organs, such as the liver or nervous system, are less common. It can be seen during pregnancy and in newborns.
Signs & symptoms
Symptoms vary from person to person. GARD lists these among the most common:
- Premature birth
- Slow growth before birth
- Small head size (less common)
- Brain differences (less common)
Not everyone has every symptom. GARD's list comes from the Human Phenotype Ontology.
Diagnosis
- 1Talk with your doctor
Share the symptoms you've noticed, when they started and your family health history. Notes and photos can help.
- 2See a specialist
Your doctor may refer you to a specialist who knows rare conditions.
- 3Ask which tests can help
Your care team will decide which exams and tests can confirm the diagnosis.
Care & treatment
- Care team
- A doctor familiar with rare conditions, plus specialists as needed
- Expert care
- Ask about multidisciplinary care centers for rare conditions
- Treatment
- GARD doesn't list specific treatments for this condition. Your care team will tailor care to your symptoms.
- Research
- Clinical trials and observational studies may be options. See the research section below.
General information, not medical advice. Your care team makes the decisions.
Everyday life
Living with a rare condition is easier with support.
- Connect with rare disease patient organizations for support
- Keep notes on symptoms, changes and questions for appointments
- Ask about patient registries that help research
- Look into financial aid and travel resources for care visits
Quick facts
It is caused by a herpes virus infection in the mother that spreads to the baby.
Also known as: antenatal herpes simplex virus infection; congenital herpes simplex; congenital herpes simplex infection; mother-to-child transmission of herpes simplex virus infection; neonatal herpes simplex; simplexvirus caused infectious embryofetopathy
Patient organizations
Rare-disease groups that can help
- Global GenesRare Diseases · United States
- National Organization for Rare DisordersRare Diseases · United States
- Genetic AllianceRare Diseases · United States
- RARE FoundationRare Diseases · United States
You are more than your diagnosis
Perspectives from people navigating life with Congenital herpes simplex virus infection.
Explore research for Congenital herpes simplex virus infection
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- Recruiting studies from ClinicalTrials.gov
- Share your city to look for research near you
- Eligibility is confirmed by the study team
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Powered by HealthSpark, our AI chat helper · Study information from ClinicalTrials.gov · Eligibility is confirmed by the study team.
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