Herpes simplex, normally known as "herpes", is a viral disease caused by the herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) and the herpes simplex virus 2 (HSV-2). Herpes infections can be classified into several types based on the site of infection. Oral herpes have visible symptoms of infection in the face or mouth, which are termed as cold sores. It is also the most common type of herpes. Genital herpes, which is the type often associated with the term "herpes", is the second most common type of herpes. As suggested by its name, the visible symptoms are on the genitals and the area around it. Herpes simplex viruses could also cause other disorders. Such disorders include herpetic whitlow, herpes gladiatorum, ocular herpes, cerebral herpes infection encephalitis, neonatal herpes, Mollaret's meningitis, and also Bell's palsy.
Herpes virus cycles between active and inactive stages. The active stage shows symptoms such as blisters containing the infectious virus particles. The inactive stage or the remission period is indicated by the disappearance of the sores. In genital herpes, however, it is often asymptomatic, meaning it shows no visible symptoms. It seems to be always on its inactive stage but the reality is it still cycles between the stages. The only hint that you are on the active stage is viral shedding.
After initial infection, the virus will find its way to sensory nerves where it stays for life. When this happens, it is now called a latent virus. The causes of its recurrence are not known although some of the potential triggers have been determined. Episodes of the active stage may reduce in severity and frequency. Herpes simplex is mostly transmitted through direct contact with a body fluid or a lesion of an infected individual. Transmission could occur with just a simple skin to skin contact with the infected site.
HSV infections cause a number of distinct medical disorders. Common infection of the skin or mucosa may affect the face and mouth, genitalia, or hands. More dangerous infections could even affect the eyes, central nervous system, including the brain. People with immature immune system are vulnerable to severe complications from HSV infections. HSV infections are also attributed to bipolar disorder and Alzheimer's disease. In all cases of HSV infection, HSV is never removed from the body by the immune system. The virus simply enters the nerves at the site of infection and migrates to the cell body of the neuron and becomes latent in the ganglion.
Oral herpes is the most easily diagnosed and clinically examined. The appearance and distribution of sores are multiple, round, superficial oral ulcers, with acute gingivitis. Other types of herpes like genital herpes and other asymptomatic herpes are much harder to diagnose. Laboratory testing is normally the solution for diagnosing such cases. Laboratory tests include: virus culture, direct fluorescent antibody, skin biopsy, and polymerase chain reaction to test for the presence of viral DNA. Such tests are highly specific and sensitive making their costs high and time constraints longer.
These tests are present at various STD clinics if you would want to get yourself tested and verify if you have or do not have Herpes. They employ the most up-to-date and most high-tech laboratory procedures and is known for their accurate results and confidential handling of the information.
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