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Herpes

A viral infection caused by herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) or type 2 (HSV-2), characterized by recurrent episodes of painful sores or blisters on the skin or mucous membranes. HSV-1 commonly results in oral herpes, presenting as cold sores around the mouth, while HSV-2 primarily causes genital herpes, affecting the genital and anal areas. The virus remains in the body in a dormant state and can reactivate, causing recurrent symptoms.

Key Features:

  • Types of Herpes Simplex Virus:
    • HSV-1: Primarily causes oral herpes, but can also cause genital herpes.
    • HSV-2: Primarily causes genital herpes, but can also cause oral herpes.
  • Transmission: Spread through direct contact with infected bodily fluids or lesions. Oral herpes is commonly spread through kissing or sharing personal items, while genital herpes is typically transmitted through sexual contact.
  • Symptoms:
    • Primary Infection: Initial infection can be severe, with multiple painful blisters, fever, and swollen lymph nodes.
    • Recurrent Episodes: Less severe, with fewer sores. Triggers for recurrence include stress, illness, and sun exposure.
  • Diagnosis:
    • Clinical examination of sores.
    • Laboratory tests, including PCR (polymerase chain reaction), viral culture, and blood tests for HSV antibodies.
  • Treatment:
    • No cure, but antiviral medications (e.g., acyclovir, valacyclovir) can manage symptoms and reduce the frequency of outbreaks.
  • Complications:
    • Increased risk of HIV transmission.
    • Severe infections in immunocompromised individuals.
    • Neonatal herpes, a serious condition, can occur if a newborn is exposed to HSV during birth.

 

Online References:

  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Provides detailed information on herpes, including its symptoms, transmission, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.
  • Mayo Clinic: Offers an overview of herpes simplex infection, covering symptoms, causes, risk factors, complications, and treatments.
  • World Health Organization (WHO): Provides global perspective on herpes simplex virus, including epidemiology, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment.
  • Johns Hopkins Medicine: Describes herpes, including the differences between HSV-1 and HSV-2, symptoms, diagnostic methods, and treatment options.