Diseases
Herpes simplex Virus (HSV)
Herpes Simplex Virus (human herpesvirus HHV1/2) (always intercellular), double-stranded DNA virus, one of the herpes viruses.
The distribution and disease of the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV)
The Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) is a widespread virus belonging to the herpesvirus family. It is primarily transmitted through direct contact with infected skin or mucous membrane lesions and is prevalent worldwide.
HSV causes various diseases, including:
Herpes labialis (Cold sores):
Herpes labialis is the most common manifestation of HSV. It presents as painful blisters on the lips or around the mouth.
Herpes genitalis (Genital herpes):
HSV-2 is the primary cause of genital herpes, transmitted through sexual contact. It presents as painful blisters in the genital area.
Herpes gladiatorum:
This is an HSV-1 infection primarily occurring in athletes who have skin-to-skin contact, such as wrestlers or rugby players.
Herpes encephalitis:
A rare but serious infection where the virus infects the brain, leading to inflammation of the brain and the central nervous system.
Further informations
Herpes simplex Virus (HSV)
- Herpes simplex Virus 1 = Human Herpes Virus 1 (HHV-1)
- Herpes simplex Virus 2 = Human Herpes Virus 2 (HHV-2) (intracellular)
- HSV 1 by an infected skin-area (respiratory tract, eyes or mouth)
- HSV 2 by sexual contact or during childbirth for infants
Watery blisters on the skin or mucous membranes of the mouth, lips, genitals, anus, flu-like symptoms (fever, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, problems urinating, herpes keratitis (pain, light sensitivity, discharge: sexual tract/mouth area).
- Multiple Sclerosis (neurovirulent)
- Alzheimer´s disease (HSV1)
- loss of vision
- encephalitis (aphasia)
- latent infection; reactivation by organ transplantation or HIV: encephalitis, pneumonitis, bone marrow suppression.
immune suppression (children, elder people)
