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Content on this page:
Overview
As stated in the Introduction
section, herpes simplex virus (HSV) is a major health problem, causing a wide
spectrum of diseases.
HSV type 1 (HSV-1) affects as much as 3.8 billion
individuals, while 520 million are infected with herpes
simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2). Other details in its prevalence are
discussed in the Epidemiology
section.
The Pathophysiology section discusses how herpes simplex virus is transmitted and how it achieves
latency. This section also states how reactivation brings about the appearance
of vesicles and ulcers.
In the Classification
section, the different types of herpes simplex
virus infection are discussed.
Herpes Simplex Virus Infection_Disease SummaryHistory and Physical Examination
The Clinical Presentation section describes the signs and symptoms of herpes simplex virus disease.
Diagnosis
As mentioned in the Diagnosis
and Diagnostic Criteria section, the diagnosis of herpes simplex virus is usually based on
distinctive lesions. However, laboratory tests can be done to confirm
diagnosis. The different lab tests that can be done to aid diagnosis are
detailed in the Laboratory Tests and
Ancillaries section.
Other diseases that should be ruled out in the diagnosis of herpes simplex virus infection are listed in the Differential Diagnosis section.
Management
The general principles in antiviral treatment in herpes simplex virus infection are discussed in
the Principles of Therapy
section.
The Pharmacological
Therapy section provides details on symptomatic therapy,
antiviral therapy, and management strategies for recurrent genital herpes.
The Nonpharmacological
section includes patient/parent counseling and interventions such as cool
compress, cool perineal baths, and sitz baths.
The Prevention section emphasizes the importance of educating patients on
how to prevent transmission of herpes simplex virus.
The Monitoring section gives instructions on what to do in cases
of treatment interruption.
