[How I treat...recurrent labial herpes]

Recurrent oro-labial herpes is predominantly caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1. Following the primary infection, the virus remains in a latent stage in the trigeminal ganglion. After episodic reactivations, it is transported via the V1 or V2 axons to the lower or upper lip. Although no causal treatment exists, a series of therapeutic options are currently available. It now appears that recurrent oro-labial herpes can be treated with shorter treatment schedules with the currently available antiviral drugs. In these instances, similar clinical efficacy was obtained with increased compliance of the patient, and reduction in both the economical impact and the amount of drug intake. Newer treatment strategies are emerging including non medicated hydrocolloid dressings and combinations of a systemic antiviral drug with a topical corticosteroid.