Clinical aspects of genital herpes.
The clinical course is highly variable. The chance of recurrence is about 60 percent. Patients are infectious when lesions are present and, to a lesser extent, when asymptomatic virus shedding occurs. The chain of transmission can be difficult to ascertain. Transmission to the neonate is the most feared complication. Acyclovir--topical, oral or intravenous--is effective when used appropriately. Counseling and education by a supportive and informed physician can be of great benefit to patients with this sexually transmitted disease.
D000212:Acyclovir / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D006558:Herpes Genitalis / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000635:transmission; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D011247:Pregnancy; D011251:Pregnancy Complications, Infectious / Q000635:transmission; D012008:Recurrence
D000212:Acyclovir