A herpes infection can be
caused by both herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) and herpes simplex virus
2 (HSV-2). Infection with the herpes virus is categorized on the basis
of the site of infection. Herpes simplex is most easily transmitted by
direct contact with a herpes lesion. Transmission may also occur
through skin-to-skin contact during periods of asymptomatic shedding.
Herpes typically presents
with small vesicles filled with clear or yellowish fluid based on an
inflamed skin. Infection of the skin or mucosa may affect the face and
mouth (orofacial herpes) although other skin locations may be affected.
Examples are the genital area (genital herpes), or hands (herpes
whitlow). More serious disorders occur when the virus infects and
damages other organs such as the eye (herpes keratitis), or the central
nervous system (herpes encephalitis).
Primary (orofacial herpes)
is mostly readily identified by phycisians. In case of doubt the virus
can be isolated through laboratory test on swabs taken from the base of
Mild uncomplicated eruptions of herpes
simplex require no treatment. There is currently no cure that can
eradicate herpes virus from the body, but antiviral medications can
reduce the frequency, duration, and severity of outbreaks.