Abstract
Eczema Herpeticum (EH) or Kaposi's Varicelliform eruption (KVE) is a severe viral infection that occurs when herpes simplex virus infects an inflamed skin, most often occurring in patients with atopic dermatitis (AD) or other inflammatory skin conditions. To discern various primary dermatoses in which KVE occurred and to study the clinical features, course, and response to specific antiviral treatment along with a course of the primary dermatoses during the episode of KVE. Data was collected in the Dermatology Out-patient department of a tertiary care center in Northern India from December 2017 to March 2024, and it was tabulated and analysed. Out of 14 patients in our study, 57% (n = 8) were male, and 43% (n = 6) were female, with an M: F ratio of 1.3:1. The mean age of presentation was 44.8 years. Eczema herpeticum was present underlying the following primary diseases where, in our study, the maximum patients were of Contact dermatitis 22% (n = 3), followed by Tinea corporis 14.5% (n = 2), Psoriasis 14.5% (n = 2), 7% each of Pemphigus vulgaris (n = 1), Atopic dermatitis (n = 1), Seborrheic dermatitis (n = 1), Burn (n = 1), Lichen simplex chronicus (n = 1), Hansen's disease with Dapsone hypersensitivity syndrome (n = 1) and Tuberculosis (n = 1). KVE underscores the importance of vigilant management, especially when it is associated with any dermatological disorder where the integrity of the skin is compromised. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are important to avoid mortality. Careful management of underlying dermatoses also helps in preventing recurrence and complications.