[Herpesvirus infection: from the primary oral lesion to recurrent herpes]

This paper presents an overview of the clinical conditions associated with a herpetic lesion at the time of the primary infection, as a true primary infection or a first herpetic accident, or during recurrences. The virus responsible, its anatomy and its functioning are detailed. The etiology and transmission of herpetic viral infection, its evolution and complications, as well as diagnostic aids are also discussed. To complete the discussion of this chronic disease which can cause acute annoyances treatment, particularly for children is reviewed, and suggestions are made to prevent it.