Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1-Induced Cervicitis Without Vulvar Lesions Mimicking Cervical Cancer in a Healthy Woman

TL;DR

A rare case of genital herpes caused by HSV type 1 presented as cervical swelling without vulvar lesions, mimicking cervical cancer.

Contribution

This is the first documented case of HSV type 1-induced cervical mass confirmed through pathological diagnosis.

Findings

HSV type 1 can cause cervical mass without vulvar lesions, mimicking cervical cancer.

Magnetic resonance imaging and pathological analysis helped distinguish HSV-induced cervicitis from malignancy.

Abstract

Genital herpes, caused by herpes simplex virus (HSV) types 1 and 2, is a common sexually transmitted disease typically presenting with genital lesions and discomfort. However, a cervical mass without vulvar lesions is a rare manifestation of the disease, often leading to diagnostic confusion with cervical cancer. This report highlights a unique case of HSV type 1-induced cervical swelling in the absence of vulvar lesions, confirmed through pathological diagnosis. To our knowledge, this is the first documented instance where HSV type 1-induced cervical mass was confirmed through pathological diagnosis. Magnetic resonance imaging, pathological analysis, and immunohistochemistry were key in distinguishing the condition from malignancy. This case underscores the importance of considering HSV infection in differential diagnoses for a cervical mass and provides critical insights for the accurate diagnosis and management of HSV-related cervicitis.

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