Vesicular Eruption of Vacuum‐Assisted Delivery

Abstract

Vacuum-assisted delivery has been associated with several complications, including rare vesicular eruptions. Herpes simplex virus has been cultured in a substantial portion of these cases. A case of vesicular eruption from vacuum-assisted delivery is presented in a 1-day-old neonate. The patient was placed on empiric acyclovir until viral cultures and polymerase chain reaction for herpes simplex virus were found to be negative. The lesions resolved without sequelae. The vesicular eruption of vacuum-assisted delivery is probably secondary to mechanical trauma. Clinicians should be aware of the possible risk of herpes simplex virus infection, instituting antiviral therapy until this is excluded.

Twelve-Day-Old Neonate With Rapidly Enlarging Forehead Lesion

“…Vesicular eruptions secondary to vacuum-assisted deliveries are often culture-positive for herpes simplex virus. 4 Though empiric anti-S aureus and staphylococcal treatment may be appropriate in some cases, skin swab for culture and gram stain of purulent material from the lesion is recommended to identify the causative pathogen and to tailor antibiotics. Lesions near the eye should be lanced with great caution as to avoid leakage of purulence into the ocular chamber.…”