Anorectal Herpesvirus hominis infection in men.

Thirteen cases of anorectal Herpesivirus hominis infection in male homosexuals are described. Symptoms included pruitus ani in 11 cases, while 7 noticed intense and pain. Change of bowel habits and anal discharge were not presenting symptoms in the majority. None had generalized complications. Inguinal lymphadenopathy, a vesicular eruption, and superficial ulceration around the anal margin were commonly found. Some developed vesicular spread to the natal cleft. Treatment with cotrimoxazole to prevent masking of possible coexistent syphilis, though satisfactory in preventing secondary infection seemed to have little effect on early resolution of the lesions. Relapse occurred in over one third of the patients. Infection with Herpesvirus hominis seems an uncommon but increasingly recognized hazard for the passive homosexual and should be included in the differential diagnosis of lesions presenting at the anus.