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Genital Herpes: Treatment Guidelines
1Department of Genitourinary Medicine, Withington Hospital, Manchester, UK.
Medscape Women'S Health
|May 1, 1997
Summary
Genital herpes, often caused by herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2), is a common STD causing painful genital ulcers. Antiviral treatments and patient education are key for managing this infection.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Dermatology
- Public Health
Background:
- Genital herpes, primarily caused by herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2), is the leading cause of genital ulceration.
- The initial infection is typically the most severe, with recurrent episodes generally being milder.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive overview of genital herpes, focusing on diagnosis and epidemic quantification.
- To outline current management strategies, including antiviral therapies and patient counseling.
Main Methods:
- Clinical diagnosis supported by laboratory confirmation (culture or serology).
- Review of established antiviral treatments such as acyclovir, valacyclovir, and famciclovir.
- Emphasis on patient education and counseling as integral components of care.
Main Results:
- Antiviral therapy effectively reduces the severity and duration of both primary and recurrent genital herpes episodes.
- Continuous suppressive therapy can significantly decrease the frequency of recurrences.
- Cesarean delivery is recommended for pregnant women with active genital lesions or recent HSV infection in the third trimester to prevent neonatal transmission.
Conclusions:
- Effective management of genital herpes involves a combination of antiviral medications, pain management, and patient education.
- Suppressive antiviral therapy offers a valuable strategy for reducing the impact of recurrent infections.
- Preventing neonatal herpes transmission requires careful management during pregnancy and delivery.