Herpes Simplex Virus Lymphadenitis and Varicella-Herpes Zoster Lymphadenitis

Abstract

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is a common mucocutaneous infection that has worldwide distribution and primarily spreads from person to person by direct contact with infected secretions. HSV is an α herpesvirus and includes types 1 and 2. The virus has a double-stranded DNA that encodes more than 80 proteins. Primary infection with HSV type 1 occurs mostly among children and adolescents, commonly spreads mouth to mouth, and is commonly associated with gingivostomatitis. Recurrences more often present as herpes labialis, however, the infection can become systemic. HSV type 2 occurs most often in adults, commonly spreads through sexual contact, and is associated with genital ulcers. These patterns of presentation and disease manifestations, however, may overlap. Most primary HSV infections are asymptomatic, and disease is commonly first noticed on reactivation. Serologic testing has shown that infection is more common among persons with multiple sex partners.