Postpartum Endometritis Caused by Herpes and Cytomegaloviruses

BACKGROUND: Postpartum endometritis is usually a polymicrobial infection caused by organisms that are part of the normal vaginal flora. A pathologically confirmed case of postpartum endometritis secondary to herpes and cytomegalovirus in a human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive patient is reported. CASE: A 29-year-old, HIV-positive woman presented 6 days postpartum with abdominal pain and foul-smelling vaginal discharge. Pelvic ultrasonography revealed retained products of conception. Dilation and evacuation was performed, and antibiotics were started. Despite adequate antibiotics and laparoscopic drainage of a pelvic collection, fevers and pain continued. A total abdominal hysterectomy, salpingectomy, and appendectomy were performed. Pathology reported herpes and cytomegalovirus infection of the uterus. CONCLUSION: Herpes simplex virus (HSV) and cytomegalovirus need to be considered as a potential cause of postpartum endometritis. When antibiotic therapy fails, an antiviral regimen should be considered. (Obstet Gynecol 2011; 117: 466-7) DOI: 10.1097/AOG.0b013e3181f73805