Herpes vulvovaginitis

Pelvis | Obstetrics and Gynaecology | Herpes vulvovaginitis (Disease)


Description

Herpes genitalis is a viral infection and is one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases.

There are several diseases that lead to the term herpes as part of their name (eg, genital herpes, herpes zoster side, ie shingles). For their emergence various herpes viruses are responsible. A representative of the herpes virus is the herpes simplex virus (HSV) and human herpes virus (HHV) called.

Typical symptoms of genital herpes are small, painful, itchy blisters on the genitals. In most cases causes the herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) the genital herpes, but sometimes the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). Both virus types can lead to cold sores. Herpes simplex viruses are distributed worldwide and is responsible for a broad spectrum of diseases, ranging from localized skin or mucosal damage occurring to severe infections that can spread throughout the body.

Causes and Risk factors

Herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). HSV-type 1 commonly causes oral lesions like fever blisters on the mouth or face (oral herpes). HSV-type 2 typically affects the genital area (genital herpes). The HSV virus cannot be removed from the body once infected but remains dormant within the nerve cells. When a patient experiences emotional or physical stress the lesions of HSV can return.

Diagnosis an Treatment

Diagnosis consists of performing a culture of a blister or a direct fluorescent antibody test.

Treatment may include antiviral treatment (acyclovir, famciclovir), nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (ibuprofen, naproxen), and pain medications such as acetaminophen. ...