Which ultrasound findings suggest congenital HSV infection?

The presence of intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) and microcephaly in ultrasound findings can be indicative of a congenital herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection. Both IUGR and microcephaly suggest that the fetus may not be growing as expected, which can be due to a variety of infectious processes, including congenital infections like HSV.

Congenital HSV infection is known to cause a range of neurological and growth-related issues, as the virus can affect fetal development during critical periods. The combination of growth restriction and abnormal head size is significant, as it points to the possibility of central nervous system involvement, which is consistent with the effects of HSV on fetal health.

Other options mentioned, while relevant to other congenital infections or anomalies, do not specifically align with the hallmark signs of congenital HSV infection as clearly as IUGR and microcephaly do. For instance, findings such as hydranencephaly and limb reduction are more characteristic of conditions like congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection and other teratogenic influences. Therefore, ultrasound findings indicating IUGR and microcephaly stand out as compelling evidence suggestive of congenital HSV infection.