Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 7, 2026

A Primary Neuron Culture System for the Study of Herpes Simplex Virus Latency and Reactivation
Published on: April 2, 2012
Recurrent herpes labialis and Herpes simplex virus-1 genitalis: what is the link?
Sergio Delmonte1, Francesca Sidoti2,3, Simone Ribero1,4
1Unit of Dermatology, Department of Medical Sciences, Center of Genital Dermatology and Sexually Transmitted Infections, University of Turin, Turin, Italy.
Background:
Recently, Herpes simplex virus (HSV)-1 seroprevalence declined among adolescents, rendering young people lacking HSV-1 antibodies more susceptible to genital HSV-1 acquisition, if sexually exposed. The aim of the present study was to identify the possible risk factors for the development of HSV-1 related Herpes genitalis (HG).
Methods:
From January 2012 to December 2015, patients with HG attending three Sexually Transmitted Infections Units in Northern Italy were recruited. A genital swab on the lesions for the search of HSV-1/2 DNA through real time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and a serum sample for HSV-1/2 specific serology were performed. Moreover, patients were asked whether they had personal history of herpes labialis (HL). Patients with PCR proved HSV-1 HG were included as cases; asymptomatic subjects attending STI Units for a blood check were recruited as controls and were checked for HSV-1/2 serology.
Results:
The study included 141 cases and 70 controls. Specific HSV-1 antibodies were found in 34.7% of the cases and 67% of the controls. History of recurrent herpes labialis (RHL) was found in 4% of the cases and 31% of the controls. The occurrence of RHL in HSV-1 seropositive patients resulted lower in the case group compared to the control group.
Conclusions:
We can speculate about a protective role for RHL against the clinical appearance of HSV-1 HG. The clinical usefulness of our study involved especially the counselling in serodiscordant couples. The presence of HSV-1 antibodies in asymptomatic sexual partners does appear protective for HG manifestation only in presence of RHL history.
More Related Videos
11:56Ex Vivo Infection of Murine Epidermis with Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1
Published on: August 24, 2015
13:22Detection of the Genome and Transcripts of a Persistent DNA Virus in Neuronal Tissues by Fluorescent In situ Hybridization Combined with Immunostaining
Published on: January 23, 2014
Related Concept Videos
Viral Recombination
Sexually Transmitted Infections
Retroviruses
Size and Structure of Viral Genomes
Retrovirus Life Cycles
Mechanisms of Retrovirus-induced Cancers