Gingival recessions caused by Herpes Simplex Virus in a patient with COVID-19 infection

Herpes Simplex Virus type 1 (HSV-1) is a very common infection often localized in the mucocutaneous junction of the lip. Rarely, it could be detected also in periodontal tissues, associated with an elevated risk of periodontal disease progression and gingival recessions. Recently, HSV-1 and numerous co-infections have been reported in literature associated with the Coronavirus and subsequent COVID-19 disease. This report illustrates a case of HSV-1 in a patient with Covid-19 infection, showing the presence of ulcers and vesicles on the gingival margin of maxillary teeth associated with soreness and pain. The histology highlighted the presence of intraepithelial cell ballooning, confirming the diagnosis of HSV-1 infection.

Automated summary

This report presents a case of HSV-1 infection in a patient with Covid-19, highlighting the clinical manifestations. The case suggests a possible association between HSV-1 infection and COVID-19 disease.