GEITAL HERPES DISEASES: A OVERVIEW

Summary Genital herpes is an acute inflammatory disease of the genitalia caused by herpes simplex virus (HSV). There are two types of this virus: type 1 and type 2. Apart from genitals, the virus can infect the anus, buttocks, top of the thighs, mouth, lips or face. Primary genital herpes is usually self*limiting bu t may cause painful local or systemic disease in neonates and patients who are immunocompromised. Pregnant women who have an active herpes infection on their genitals or in their birth canal when they deliver may pass the infection to their newborn infant. Genital herpes passes through sexual contact and no condom can stop genital herpes and HPV (human papilloma virus) because their transmission is by skin*skin contact rather than semen, and the lesion s are typically outside. The virus has also been linked with the development of cancer of the cervix, a disease which strikes 18000 women in North America each year. Diagnosis is possible through culture of fluid from a blister or open sore. The most accurate test called PCR is performed on fluid from a blister shows small amounts of DNA. The standard, effective and specific treatment for genital herpes is antiviral therapy with drugs like Valacyclovir and Acyclovir combined with analgesics like Aspirin or Paracetamol.