Herpes simplex virus: an occupational hazard in dentistry.
Approximately 70% of the population in the western world become infected with the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) by the second decade of life. This review discusses the role of the HSV-1 as a potential occupational hazard for dental workers, focusing on herpes labialis, herpetic whitlow and keratitis. The risks associated with the dental treatment of patients with HSV-1, both from the perspective of the clinician and the patient are presented. Procedures for minimising the impact of HSV-1 within the dental practice, in particular infection control, delivery of treatment and patient education, are addressed. The management options for recurrent herpes labialis are also reviewed.
Lewis
M A O
MA
Dental School, University of Wales College of Medicine, Cardiff, UK. Lewismao@Cardiff.ac.uk
D003815:Dentists; D009783:Dermatitis, Occupational / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000821:virology; D006229:Hand Dermatoses / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000821:virology; D006560:Herpes Labialis / Q000635:transmission; D018259:Herpesvirus 1, Human / Q000502:physiology; D006801:Humans; D016849:Keratitis, Herpetic / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000635:transmission; D009784:Occupational Diseases / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000821:virology*; D013283:Stomatitis, Herpetic / Q000635:transmission*