GENITAL HERPES is a recurrent, incurable viral disease. Two serotypes of HSV have been identified: HSV-1 and HSV-2. Most cases of recurrent genital herpes are caused by HSV-2. On the basis of serologic studies, genital HSV-2 infection has been diagnosed in at least 45 million persons in the United States.
Most HSV-2–infected persons have not received a diagnosis of genital herpes. Such persons have mild or unrecognized infections that shed virus intermittently in the genital tract. Some cases of first-episode genital herpes are manifested by severe disease that might require hospitalization. Many cases of genital herpes are transmitted by persons who are unaware that they have the infection or are asymptomatic when transmission occurs.
Systemic antiviral drugs partially control the symptoms and signs of herpes episodes when used to treat first clinical episodes or recurrent episodes or when used as daily suppressive therapy. However, these drugs neither eradicate latent virus . . . [Full Text of this Article]
First Clinical Episode of Genital Herpes
Recurrent Episodes of HSV Disease
Severe Disease
Management of Sex Partners
Special Considerations
Allergy, Intolerance, or Adverse Reactions
HIV Infection
Pregnancy
Perinatal Infection
