Amirabad Pathobiology and Virology Laboratory

$result->img_alt

What is herpes simplex?

Date: 2 سال قبل

author: AmirAbad

What is herpes simplex?
The herpes simplex virus, also known as HSV, is an infection that causes herpes. Herpes can appear in various parts of the body, most commonly on the genitals or mouth.
What are the types of herpes viruses?
·       HSV-1: primarily causes oral herpes, and is generally responsible for cold sores and fever blisters around the mouth and on the face.
·       HSV-2: primarily causes genital herpes, and is generally responsible for genital herpes outbreaks.
·       Herpes zoster: This virus causes chickenpox and shingles.
What are the symptoms of HSV?
Sores appear where the infection entered your body. You can spread the infection by touching a sore and then rubbing or scratching another area of your body, including your eyes.
Men and women can develop sores on the:
·       Buttocks and thighs
·       Anus
·       Mouth
·       Urethra (the tube that allows urine to drain from the bladder to the outside)
Women can also develop sores in or on the:
·       Vaginal area
·       External genitals
·       Cervix
Men can also develop sores in or on the:
·       Penis
·       Scrotum
How is HSV diagnosed?
This type of virus is generally diagnosed with a physical exam.
If a health care provider is uncertain, herpes simplex can be diagnosed with lab tests, including DNA -- or PCR -- tests and virus cultures.
Blood tests to identify antibodies to HSV can also be helpful. (Antibodies are produced by the immune system to help defend the body against a particular attacker, such as HSV.)
Preventing the spread of HSV infections:
The following strategies can reduce the risk of developing or passing on herpes:
 
·       using barrier protection, such as condoms, when having sex
·       avoiding sex while symptoms are present
·       avoiding kissing and oral sex when there is a cold sore around the mouth
·       washing the hands thoroughly, especially after touching the affected area, during an outbreak
 
What are the complications of genital herpes?
People who have open sores from genital herpes are twice as likely to get HIV compared to people without herpes. This risk is yet another reason why it’s important to use condoms.
There is no cure for herpes. The good news is that sores often clear without treatment. Antiviral medications can, however, prevent or shorten outbreaks during the period of time the person takes the medication. In addition, daily suppressive therapy (i.e. daily use of antiviral medication) for herpes can reduce the likelihood of transmission to partners.

Write Comment

Comments

Register now and get the test results online

Enquiry

labratory locations