Oral herpes

Definition

Oral herpes is a viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) that typically manifests as cold sores or fever blisters around the mouth and lips. It is highly contagious and can spread through direct contact with infected saliva or lesions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. HSV-1 is the primary cause of oral herpes, but HSV-2 can also cause oral infections.
2. The initial outbreak of oral herpes can be severe, often accompanied by systemic symptoms like fever and swollen lymph nodes.
3. The virus remains latent in the nerve cells and can reactivate, causing recurrent outbreaks.
4. Antiviral medications such as acyclovir can help reduce the severity and frequency of outbreaks but do not cure the infection.
5. Oral herpes is often diagnosed based on clinical appearance, but laboratory tests like PCR or viral culture can confirm the diagnosis.

Review Questions

• What virus primarily causes oral herpes?
• How does oral herpes typically manifest?
• Can antiviral medications cure oral herpes?

Related terms

Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV): A group of viruses that cause infections in humans, including HSV-1 and HSV-2.

Cold Sores: Painful blisters around the mouth caused by an infection with HSV-1.

Acyclovir:

An antiviral medication used to treat infections caused by herpes viruses.