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Herpes labialis, commonly known as cold sores, is a widespread infectious condition caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). This table provides a comprehensive view of the infection, detailing the progression from the initial asymptomatic phase to recurrent symptomatic outbreaks, typical triggers for reactivation, and the global public health impact. It also outlines the common presentation in primary versus recurrent infections and the age-related epidemiological trends, emphasizing the diagnostic approach and the infection's clinical course.
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Aetiology | Caused by HSV-1; HSV-2 can also cause primary herpes labialis but rarely leads to recurrences. |
| Initial Infection | Often asymptomatic; can present with blisters/sores on or near the lips. Virus becomes dormant in sensory nerve cells post-healing. |
| Reactivation Triggers | Stress, trauma, hormonal changes, hyperthermia, UV exposure, corticosteroids, etc. |
| Prevalence | 15-40% globally; higher in HIV-positive individuals; detectable antibodies more common in lower socioeconomic groups. |
| Symptoms of Recurrence | Rash on lips/oral membranes, painful blisters, itching, prodrome, followed by sequential lesion stages. |
| Diagnosis | Generally clinical history and examination; laboratory tests when necessary. |
| Age of First Infection | Typically before age 20; in developed countries, individuals are older at first infection, leading to an increased incidence of primary genital herpes due to orogenital contact. |
| Disease Course... |
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