Description
Herpes is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). HSV-type 1 commonly causes oral lesions like fever blisters on the mouth or face (oral herpes). HSV-type 2 typically affects the genital area (genital herpes). The rash of HSV may resolve but the virus may remain dormant within the nerve cells. The sores of HSV may return when a person is experiencing emotional or physical stress or immune suppression. However, attacks of herpes may recur for no identifiable reason.
Symptoms
Painful blisters in the vagina and vulva that recur periodically.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical will be performed. A culture of a blister or a direct fluorescent antibody (DFA) test can be done to establish the diagnosis.
Other Specific Tests: HSV culture, direct fluorescent antibody (DFA) test
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Family Practice
Workup:
A history and physical will be performed. A culture of a blister or a direct fluorescent antibody (DFA) test can be done to establish the diagnosis.
Other Specific Tests: HSV culture, direct fluorescent antibody (DFA) test
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Family Practice
Treatment
Treatment includes: antiviral treatment (acyclovir/Zovirax, famciclovir/Famvir), nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications/NSAIDs (ibuprofen/Motrin or Advil, naproxen/Naprosyn), and pain medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol).