A Call for Awareness: Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 among Keratoconjunctivitis Patients in Sudan

Abstract

Keratoconjunctivitis refers to the concurrent inflammation of the cornea and conjunctiva, often presenting with redness, discharge, tearing, irritation, photophobia, and ocular pain. Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), a neurotropic α-herpesvirus, is a significant etiological agent of ocular diseases worldwide and can lead to blepharitis, conjunctivitis, dendritic keratitis, and in severe cases, corneal scarring and blindness. HSV-1 transmission occurs through direct contact with infected secretions and can be triggered by immunosuppression, trauma, or ultraviolet exposure. Although the global burden of ocular HSV-1 infections is well documented, but limited data are available from Sudan, particularly concerning molecular detection. This study aimed to investigate the molecular prevalence of HSV-1 among patients presenting with keratoconjunctivitis at Al-Walidayn Hospital in Khartoum State, Sudan. A total of 40 eye swab samples were collected from clinically diagnosed keratoconjunctivitis patients. Demographic and clinical data were obtained through structured questionnaires. Molecular analysis was performed using real-time PCR methods targeting the HSV-1 glycoprotein B gene. Among the 40 participants, 14 (35%) were male and 26 (65%) female, ranging in age from 6 months to 90 years. HSV-1 DNA was detected in 2 (5%) patients using real-time PCR. The relatively low detection rate reflects the rare occurrence of HSV-1-induced keratoconjunctivitis in this population. Nevertheless, the potential severity of HSV-1 ocular complications underscores the importance of raising awareness among both healthcare providers and the general public. The study highlights the utility of real-time PCR for HSV-1 detection in ocular infections and underlines the need for larger, multi-center surveillance studies in Sudan to guide diagnostic and public health interventions.