HIV - Herpes simplex

Herpes genitalis is a sexually transmissible disease caused by herpes simplex virus type 2, sometimes by type 1. Primo-infection with HSV-2 is symptomatic in only 37% of cases. Transmission of the virus by asymptomatic carriers is possible, even after many years. A first acute episode is either a primo-infection in a person who has never been infected with HSV-1 of HSV-2 before, or a first clinical manifestation of herpes genitalis in a patient who has been carrying the virus for some time. This first episode is classically expressed as blisters followed by ulcerations accompanied by a burning sensation, discomfort and sometimes intense pain. Some patients also report headache and symptoms indicating a neurological disorder: neuralgia, sensory disorders in the calves and urine retention. Recurrences are generally less serious than the first episode. Recurrences are more frequent with HSV-2 infection than with HSV-1 infection. With time, however, the frequency of relapses decreases. Application of steroid-containing crèmes should be avoided, especially with eye lesions.

Category: Medical Subject Notes , Medicine Notes