HERPES SIMPLEX
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Caused by herpes simplex virus affecting mostly immunosuppressed pple.
Types
- True primary infection episode-initial exposure to the virus
- Non primary initial episode-initial episode of either type 1 or type 2 in a person previously with infected or other type
- Herpes type 1 affects the mouth
- Herpes type 2 affects the genitalia
- c) Recurrent episode -subsequent episode of the same viral type
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
- Symptoms vary with type
- Pain
- General malaise
- Skin lesions
- Fever
DIAGNOSIS
- Physical exam and history taking
- Appearance of skin
- Acute vesicular lesions are likely to react positively to rapid essay whereas older crusted patches are diagnosed with viral culture.
- MANAGEMENT
- Hygiene
- Topical tx with drying agent accelerates healing
- Proper feeding
- Severe cases tx with acyclovir 400mg bd 5/7
- For recurrent episode i.e. up to 6 times/year start suppressive therapy-a combination of meds (acyclovir, valacyclovilr or famciclovir) that reduce viral shedding up to 90% hence reducing infection.
- True primary infection during pregnancy start on suppressive therapy to prevent complication during delivery and if in genital tract it is advisable for the mother to undergo c/s
HEALTH EDUCATION
- Avoid touching lesion
- Wash hands thoroughly
- Inspect genital area
- Abstain from sexual intercourse
- Use condoms btw outbreaks
COMPLICATIONS
- Sepsis
- Eczma herpetium
- Severe seborrhoe
- Scabies and other chronic skin conditions
- Herpes whitlow –is the infection of the pulp of the fingertip with herpes type 1 and 2
- Fetal anomalies include skin lesions, microcephally, encephalitis, intra cerebral calcifications.
- Osteomylitis