Herpes simplex infection simulating a positive auto-inoculation for Haemophilus ducreyi

Abstract

Auto-inoculation from a genital ulcer suspected of being ulcus molle gave redness after 24 hours and after 48 hours vesicles and pustules appeared. Cultivation from the auto-inoculation after the 48 hours was positive for herpes simplex virus type 2. Our observation underlines two points: auto-inoculation for the diagnosing of Haemophilus ducreyi infection may be mimicked by herpes simplex infection, and the incubation period of herpes simplex can be shorter than the 4-5 days usually given.