Herpes simplex involves:
Viral Infection: Caused by herpes simplex virus (HSV) type 1 (HSV-1) or type 2 (HSV-2). HSV-1 commonly causes oral herpes, while HSV-2 typically causes genital herpes.
Latency and Reactivation: After initial infection, the virus enters a latent phase in nerve cells and can reactivate later, causing recurrent outbreaks.
Transmission: Spread through direct contact with infected bodily fluids or lesions. HSV-1 is often transmitted through oral contact, while HSV-2 is spread through sexual contact.
Complications: Can lead to painful sores, and in severe cases, complications such as encephalitis, keratitis, and neonatal herpes.
Clinical Evaluation
Symptoms: Assessment of symptoms such as painful blisters or ulcers at the infection site, itching, burning sensation, and flu-like symptoms (fever, body aches).
Physical Examination: Examination findings may include visible sores or ulcers on the mouth, lips, genital area, or other parts of the body.
Diagnostic Tests: Viral culture or polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing of lesion samples, blood tests for HSV antibodies, and Tzanck smear to detect herpes infection.
Painful blisters or ulcers on the mouth, lips, genitals, or other areas.
Itching or tingling sensation at the infection site.
Burning pain during urination (genital herpes).
Swollen lymph nodes.
Flu-like symptoms such as fever, body aches, and headache.
Recurrent outbreaks triggered by stress, illness, or other factors.
Treatment focuses on managing symptoms, reducing the frequency of outbreaks, and preventing transmission:
Antiviral Medications: Oral antiviral drugs such as acyclovir, valacyclovir, and famciclovir to reduce the severity and duration of outbreaks.
Topical Treatments: Topical antiviral creams for localized relief of symptoms.
Pain Relief: Analgesics or topical anesthetics to alleviate pain and discomfort.
Preventive Measures: Avoiding direct contact with lesions, using condoms during sexual activity, and taking daily antiviral medication for suppressive therapy.
Supportive Care: Keeping the affected area clean and dry, wearing loose-fitting clothing, and using warm compresses to relieve pain.