Herpes simplex Health Article

Symptoms

• Blisters or ulcers -- most often on the mouth, lips and gums, or genitals
• Enlarged lymph nodes in the neck or groin (usually only at the time of the initial infection)
• Fever blisters
• Fever -- especially during the first episode
• Genital lesions -- there may first be a burning or tingling sensation
• Mouth sores

Signs and tests

Many times, doctors can tell whether you have an HSV infection simply by looking at the sores. However, certain tests may be ordered to be sure of the diagnosis. These tests include:

• Blood test for antibodies of HSV (serology)
• Direct fluorescent antibody (DFA) test of cells taken from a lesion
• Viral culture of the lesion

Treatment

Some cases are mild and may not need treatment.

People who have severe or prolonged outbreaks (especially if it is the first episode), people with immune system problems, or those with frequent recurrences will benefit from antiviral medications such as acyclovir (Zovirax), famciclovir (Famvir), and valacyclovir (Valtrex).

People who have frequent or severe recurrences of oral or genital herpes may choose to continue taking antiviral medications to reduce the frequency and severity of recurrences.

Support Groups

Support groups and dating services are available for people with genital herpes.

Expectations (prognosis)

The oral or genital lesions usually heal on their own in 7 to 10 days. The infection may be more severe and last longer in people who have a condition that weakens the immune system.

Once an infection occurs, the virus spreads to nerve cells and stays in the body for the rest of a person's life. It may come back from time to time and cause symptoms, or flares. Recurrences may be triggered by excess sunlight, fever, stress, acute illness, and medications or conditions that weaken the immune system (such as cancer, HIV/AIDS, or the use of corticosteroids).

Complications

• Eczema herpetiform (widespread herpes across the skin)
• Encephalitis
• Infection of the eye -- keratoconjunctivitis
• Infection of the trachea
• Meningitis
• Pneumonia
• Prolonged, severe infection in immunosuppressed individuals