Recurrent intra-oral herpes simplex 1 infection.

Human herpes simplex 1 virus (HSV-1) is a DNA virus that has the ability to lie latent and be subsequently re-activated at any point during a patient's life. In the immunocompetent patient, resolution of clinical signs and symptoms usually occurs spontaneously after 14 days. In the immunocompromised patient, healing is often delayed and the effects are much more debilitating. Indications for therapeutic regimes of systemic antiviral treatment are discussed. Clinical Relevance: Recurrent oral ulceration caused by HSV-1 may be seen by the general dental practitioner and can cause significant morbidity.