Herpes Simplex Virus

introduction

The herpes simplex virus (also: HSV) is a DNA virus belonging to the herpes virus group. A distinction is made between Herpes Simplex Virus 1 (HSV1) and Herpes Simplex Virus 2 (HSV2), both of which belong to the? Virus family.

Infection with a herpes simplex virus is one of the most common viral infections in humans and manifests itself in blister-shaped skin changes. The best known is the cold sore (Herpes labialis), in which red, crusty and sometimes painful blisters form on the lips.
The two different herpes simplex viruses differ mainly in their preferred localization. While HSV1 is referred to as the "oral" strain, which mainly manifests itself in the area of ​​the mouth and also on the nose (herpes nose), HSV2 is also called the "genital" strain, as this subtype mostly occurs in the genital area (herpes genitalis ).

Herpes simplex viruses can be found around the world, with humans being the only natural host for this type of virus.
The level of infection with this virus is extremely high: It is assumed that 85% to 90% of the world's population are infected with the herpes simplex virus are. The infection therefore always occurs from human to human, either as Smear infection or through direct contact with the mucous membrane or saliva.
A special feature of the herpes viruses is that once you have been infected with them, present in the body for life stay. It works as follows: After the virus has penetrated the human organism, it migrates from the site of the infection (i.e. mostly the mucous membrane) via the nerve tracts (axons) to the associated nerve node (ganglion), where it lingers. This is also known as latent infection. From there it can “flow out” again and again and cause symptoms again. Therefore, in the case of an infection with the herpes simplex virus, in principle it is not possible to say whether it is actually a new infection with the virus or a reactivation (also second infection or secondary infection) of the virus already in the body.
Since the However, the initial infection is usually asymptomatic runs and usually at Children under the age of 5 happens, adults are usually assumed to have reactivated.

Please see the main article for more information Herpes.

causes

The cause of illness from a herpes simplex virus can be either one Re-infection or reactivation of the virus. A new infection happens through the infection to another individual. Either the direct contact of mucous membrane to mucous membrane (for example when kissing or during sexual intercourse) or the Contact with saliva (for example when using the same glass). Most of the time, the initial infection occurs with HSV1 through an infection in Toddler age from mother to child who are infected with HSV2 however through Sexual intercourse.

Exactly which factors are necessary to reactivate a latent virus has not yet been conclusively clarified.
Some are known, however Risk factors and the fact that in certain people certain circumstances are typical for secondary infection with herpes simplex virus.
As possible reasons for reactivation are viewed:

• stress
• Weakening of the Immune system (certain diseases, Cancer or Medication intake)
• Burns (also sunburn!)
• Injuries
• Irritation to the skin or nerve knot
• fever
• hormonal fluctuations (for example in women during the Menstrual period)

Symptoms

The clinical appearance of the herpes simplex virus is very typical.
For just under 90% of the infections are HSV1 responsible, so you find that characteristic skin findings also mostly around the mouth around. The first sign of an upcoming Herpes infection is often a Feeling of tension and a itching the affected skin area. Later arise Vesicleswhich are usually located at the transition area between the red lips and the facial skin. This Blisters become inflamed in the course typically causing them encrusted and sometimes also purulent can and often Pain and a Skin hypersensitivity cause.
It also rarely occurs as part of an infection Swelling of lymph nodes in the neck area.

The HSV2 infection is typically noticeable on the genitals. There it happens, just like in the mouth Blisters that itch and hurt can. Sometimes also arise small, somewhat more serious tissue defects (Ulceration).

Less common manifestations a herpes simplex infection

• Meningitis or meningitis, with fever, Seizures and even unconsciousness can go hand in hand
• generalized herpes infections
• an infection of the Retina (Retinitis)
• the serious herpes simplex infection of newborns (Herpes neonatorum).

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of infection with the herpes simplex virus can be made thanks to its characteristic form of expansion usually done as a visual diagnosis. There is still the option to specific antibodies against the virus to be tested, since this test is of little informative value and has little influence on the further course of action in the context of the infection, it is only carried out in exceptional cases.

therapy

If the symptoms of a herpes simplex virus only locally limited and are not serious, you have to often do not treat at all. You can just wait until the infection heals on its own.
However, if therapy is desired, this is usually done with special antivirals, the so-called Antivirals.
Particularly good results with herpes simplex viruses can be achieved with the active ingredient Acyclovir, can also be used Valaciclovir, Ganciclovir, Penciclovir and rarely too Tromantadine.
Treatment is usually given local, that is, using Creams or ointments.
These preparations are available from pharmacies without a prescription. Under adequate therapy the symptoms almost always go away within 10 to 12 days again. However, if the vesicles persist, or if the patient is a child or pregnant woman, it is recommended to consult a doctor for therapeutic advice.

At a very pronounced, severe infestation can also be one with the same active ingredients systemic therapy in tablet form respectively.

An alternative to antivirals is provided as part of local treatment Herpes patch these included Hydrocolloidseffectively creating a cushion of fluid over the vesicles, preventing the virus from spreading.

prophylaxis

The infection with the herpes simplex virus can only be prevented to a limited extent. One should at symptomatically infected people the direct and indirect Avoid contact with the mucous membrane as much as possible.
However, since almost everyone is infected and there is often only a latent infection that cannot even be recognized from the outside, it is extremely difficult (if not to say impossible) to consistently prevent contact with the virus.
What you can watch out for, however, is that if you know that you tend to reactivate the herpes simplex virus, try it avoid triggering factors. Since most people know which circumstances lead to a renewed herpes infection particularly often in them (with one it can be stress, the next a cold and the next a sunburn), at least these factors should be avoided if possible.
You can also use various measures for a general hygiene worry and the Strengthen the immune systemby clicking on a healthy eating, adequate exercise and sleep respect.

course

Usually infection with a herpes simplex virus takes one mild course. An acute outbreak can be treated well.
Consequential damage is usually not left behind, although one must of course consider that a complete "healing" also not possible is because the virus persists in the nerve node for life.
Only in rare cases it can be part of an HSV infection too Complications such as meningitis come, which can then even be life-threatening.
Patients with one are an exception weakened immune system, for example AIDS Sick people in whom a herpes infection can be very serious and always as potential danger to life must apply.