149734 - How to Treat quiz: Herpes simplex

Depending on host factors the two viral strains (HSV-1, HSV-2) can cause a spectrum of disease, from benign to life threatening. It is important to consider HSV in the working differential diagnoses for encephalitis, aggressive cutaneous infection, ocular symptoms and, particularly in the neonatal and immunocompromised setting, as early treatment can significantly improve the mortality and morbidity associated with infection. Once contracted, infection is established in the dorsal root ganglia and thus reactivation can occur throughout life. This principle of latency, the treatment options and the associated psychosocial impact a herpetic infection can have, is important to explore with the patient and is paramount for holistic care.