8 Questions
Which age group is primarily affected by primary herpetic gingivostomatitis (PHGS)?
Children between 2 and 5 years old
How is herpetic stomatitis mainly transmitted?
Through direct contact with lesions or infected body fluids
What is a common symptom of herpetic stomatitis?
Generalized gingival inflammation
Which laboratory test is typically used to confirm the presence of HSV in herpetic stomatitis cases?
Polymerase chain reaction (PCR)
What is the recommended treatment for herpetic stomatitis?
Antiviral medication
When should antiviral medications like aciclovir be administered for herpetic stomatitis?
Within five days of the prodromal stage
Which of the following is a complication of herpetic stomatitis?
Encephalitis
What can happen if children born without circulating maternal antibodies contract HSV-1?
It can lead to severe complications
Study Notes
Overview of Herpetic Stomatitis
Herpetic stomatitis refers to an infection of the oral cavity caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). It is classified into two types: primary herpetic gingivostomatitis (PHGS) and herpes labialis. PHGS primarily affects children between 2 and 5 years old.
Symptoms
Typical symptoms of herpetic stomatitis include:
- Fever
- Malaise
- Headaches
- Cervical lymphadenopathy
- Generalized gingival inflammation
- Ulceration in the mouth
Transmission
Transmission occurs through direct contact with lesions or infected body fluids, particularly saliva. Children born without circulating maternal antibodies are at risk of contracting HSV-1, which can lead to severe complications.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis is typically made by observing the characteristic clinical symptoms and confirming the presence of HSV through laboratory tests, such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Treatment involves symptom management, supportive care, and antiviral medication to reduce the severity and duration of symptoms. Early administration of antiviral medications like aciclovir is crucial if symptoms appear within five days of the prodromal stage.
Complications
Complications of herpetic stomatitis include:
- Erythema multiforme
- Aseptic meningitis
- Encephalitis
These complications are rare but can be life-threatening, necessitating immediate attention.
Explore the causes, symptoms, transmission, diagnosis, treatment, and potential complications of herpetic stomatitis, an oral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus. Learn about the types, risk factors, and management strategies associated with this condition.
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