Herpes labialis

In medicine, Herpes labialis is a herpes simplex infection, caused by type 1 virus, primarily spread by oral secretions and usually occurring as a concomitant of fever. It may also develop in the absence of fever or prior illness. It commonly involves the facial region, especially the lips and the nares.

While Type 1 virus is most common in the mouth, it can infect the genitals, while Type 2 herpes genitalis can affect the mouth. The treatment of both is similar.

Cold sores are most commonly caused by Human herpesvirus 1 and are ubiquitous in distribution in human populations. Here, the vesicles have crusted over and begun to heal.

Treatment

A systematic review of treatment options is available. It centers on antiviral agents such as acyclovir, fancyclovir, and valacyclovir, but in different dosing regimens for acute, intermittent prophylactic, and chronic prophylactic use. Oral agents have proven effective, while topical preparations of the same drugs are discouraged.