Neck vesicles in neonate with herpes simplex virus infection

The early untreated skin lesions associated with neonatal HSV infection are characteristically clear vesicles on an erythematous base, often touching or "kissing," or coalesced in groups of vesicles. A swabbed sample or aspirate from the vesicles can be tested with PCR or DFA to detect HSV. Culture of the sample will readily grow HSV in 24 to 48 hours.