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Genital Herpes: A Review
1Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine, Dayton, OH, USA.
American Family Physician
|June 10, 2016
Summary
Genital herpes, caused by herpes simplex virus (HSV), is a common lifelong infection. Antiviral treatments effectively manage outbreaks and reduce transmission, especially in HIV-negative individuals.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Virology
- Public Health
Background:
- Genital herpes is a prevalent sexually transmitted infection caused by herpes simplex virus (HSV), affecting over 400 million people globally.
- The infection is characterized by lifelong presence and recurrent outbreaks, with asymptomatic viral shedding being common, posing a significant public health challenge.
- Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) increases the risk of acquiring human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive overview of genital herpes, including its causes, clinical manifestations, diagnostic methods, and management strategies.
- To highlight the differences between HSV-1 and HSV-2 and their implications for patient care.
- To discuss the role of antiviral therapy in managing genital herpes and reducing transmission, particularly in the context of HIV co-infection and pregnancy.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on genital herpes epidemiology, virology, clinical presentation, and treatment efficacy.
- Analysis of diagnostic techniques, with a focus on polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay for active lesions.
- Evaluation of treatment outcomes for nucleoside analogues in managing primary and recurrent genital herpes, including transmission reduction and pregnancy management.
Main Results:
- Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay is the preferred diagnostic method for active genital herpes lesions.
- Nucleoside analogue treatments are well-tolerated and effectively reduce the duration, severity, and frequency of outbreaks.
- Antiviral therapy in HIV-negative patients significantly lowers HSV transmission rates to uninfected partners.
Conclusions:
- Genital herpes is a manageable condition with effective antiviral therapies that reduce symptoms and transmission.
- Management strategies should consider the specific HSV type, patient's HIV status, and pregnancy to optimize outcomes.
- Antiviral prophylaxis and appropriate delivery methods are crucial for preventing neonatal herpes during pregnancy.
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