Identification of a herpes simplex virus-induced dendrite in an eye-bank donor cornea.

PURPOSE To demonstrate the presence of an active herpetic dendrite in an eye-bank cornea. METHODS CASE REPORT One eye-bank cornea was studied. Viral cultures and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing were performed 4 days after tissue preservation. The presence or absence of herpes simplex virus (HSV) type 1 was investigated. RESULTS The presence of an active HSV dendrite in an eye-bank cornea was verified. HSV type 1 was confirmed using PCR amplification and restriction endonuclease DNA fragment analysis. CONCLUSION This case suggests that HSV may remain viable in stored corneal tissue at 4 degrees C.