Michael A Siegel1. 1. Department of Oral Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, Dental School, University of Maryland, Baltimore 21201-1586, USA. mas001@dental.umaryland.edu
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Dentists are frequently asked by patients to diagnose and treat recurrent herpetic infections, which are painful and disfiguring. The author explores the diagnosis and treatment of these commonly encountered viral conditions. OVERVIEW: Herpetic infections represent a reactivation of the herpes simplex virus, which is highly infectious to patients, their families, dentists and staff members. The diagnosis of these conditions usually is based on case-specific historical findings, the characteristic clinical appearance and the location of the lesions. CONCLUSIONS: Dentists often treat patients with a history of recurrent herpetic infections. Currently used topical antiviral agents, when used in a timely manner, are well-absorbed and quite effective in decreasing the severity and duration of herpetic episodes. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: Until the herpetic lesions are completely healed, the dental team and patient should use management strategies to prevent spread of the virus, ensure adequate nutrition and maintain appropriate oral hygiene practices.
BACKGROUND: Dentists are frequently asked by patients to diagnose and treat recurrent herpetic infections, which are painful and disfiguring. The author explores the diagnosis and treatment of these commonly encountered viral conditions. OVERVIEW: Herpetic infections represent a reactivation of the herpes simplex virus, which is highly infectious to patients, their families, dentists and staff members. The diagnosis of these conditions usually is based on case-specific historical findings, the characteristic clinical appearance and the location of the lesions. CONCLUSIONS: Dentists often treat patients with a history of recurrent herpetic infections. Currently used topical antiviral agents, when used in a timely manner, are well-absorbed and quite effective in decreasing the severity and duration of herpetic episodes. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: Until the herpetic lesions are completely healed, the dental team and patient should use management strategies to prevent spread of the virus, ensure adequate nutrition and maintain appropriate oral hygiene practices.
Authors: Renata Rodrigues de Carvalho; Fernanda de Paula Eduardo; Karen Müller Ramalho; José Leopoldo Ferreira Antunes; Letícia Mello Bezinelli; Marina Helena Cury Gallottini de Magalhães; Tatiana Pegoretti; Patrícia Moreira de Freitas; Carlos de Paula Eduardo Journal: Lasers Med Sci Date: 2009-08-11 Impact factor: 3.161