Genital herpes

A sexually transmitted infection, usually caused by herpes simplex virus type 2 or type 1, that can cause recurrent sores in the genital or anal area.

Herpes simplex virus: A group of viruses that cause oral and genital infections and remain in the body for life. Genital herpes is caused by HSV-1 or HSV-2, which establish persistent infection in sensory nerves.
Herpes testing: Laboratory methods used to detect herpes simplex virus infection or antibodies to it. A swab from a fresh lesion can identify HSV and its type; blood tests answer different questions.
Neonatal herpes: A rare, potentially severe herpes simplex virus infection acquired by a newborn around birth. Genital HSV can be transmitted during delivery, especially when a first episode occurs late in pregnancy.
Syphilis: A sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. Its early painless sore can be mistaken for herpes, but testing and treatment differ.
Herpes simplex virus type 2: A herpes simplex virus type that commonly causes genital infection and recurrent genital outbreaks. HSV-2 accounts for many cases and is more likely than genital HSV-1 to recur and shed.
Antiviral drug: A medicine that inhibits viral replication or otherwise reduces viral disease. Antiviral medicines reduce outbreak duration and can suppress genital herpes recurrences.
Herpes stigma: Social shame and negative stereotypes attached to herpes infections. Stigma can magnify distress despite the infection's prevalence and generally manageable course.
Genital warts: Raised genital or anal growths caused by certain human papillomavirus types. Warts are usually persistent growths rather than the episodic painful blisters of herpes.
Herpes simplex virus type 1: A herpes simplex virus type commonly associated with oral infection that can also infect the genitals. Oral-genital contact can transmit HSV-1 to the genital area.
Acyclovir: An antiviral medicine used to treat infections caused by herpes viruses. Acyclovir is a standard treatment option for episodic or suppressive genital herpes therapy.

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