Herpes simplex labialis virus is a risk factor for vitiligo [post- herpes simplex labialis vitiligo]

ABSTRACT

Herpes simplex labialis is a common disease and is the major cause of erythema multiforme. Recently post-herpes labialis leukoderma had been noticed on the lips of Iraqi patients. The aim of the present work is to assess this new pigmentary problem. A total of 24 patients with post-herpes labialis leukoderma were included in this study. Full history and a thorough physical examination were done for all patients. Fourteen females [58.37%] and 10 males [41.67%] were studied. Their ages ranged between 7-53 years. Koebner phenomenon was positive in 17 [70.83%] patients. Family history of vitiligo in close relatives was positive in 13 [54.17%] of patients. The findings of the present work are in favor that this type of leukoderma is a variant of vitiligo that may be induced by herpes-simplex labialis.