Herpetic gingivostomatitis

Herpetic gingivostomatitis is an acute infection of the gums and oral mucosa, usually caused by herpes simplex virus type 1. It produces painful ulcers and inflamed, sometimes bleeding gums.

Herpes simplex virus: A group of viruses that establish lifelong infections and can reactivate after periods of latency. This broader virus group includes the usual cause of herpetic gingivostomatitis.
Oral examination: A clinical inspection and assessment of the teeth, gums, tongue, and other oral tissues. The pattern of widespread ulcers and inflamed gums helps distinguish this infection from other mouth conditions.
Recurrent herpes labialis: Repeated outbreaks of herpes simplex lesions, usually appearing as blisters near the lip border. Unlike the initial gingivostomatitis episode, recurrences usually affect a localized lip area.
Dehydration: A condition in which the body loses more water than it takes in. Painful swallowing and reduced fluid intake can make dehydration the main complication in children.
Herpes simplex virus type 1: A herpesvirus that commonly infects the mouth and can cause oral sores. It causes most cases and persists in sensory nerves after the initial infection.
Polymerase chain reaction: A laboratory method that amplifies selected DNA sequences for detection and analysis. PCR testing of a lesion sample can confirm herpes simplex virus when diagnosis is uncertain.
Aphthous stomatitis: A recurrent condition causing painful ulcers inside the mouth without herpes simplex infection. Aphthous ulcers are not caused by HSV and typically do not inflame the gums diffusely.
Dysphagia: Difficulty swallowing food, liquid, or saliva. Oral pain can make swallowing difficult and interfere with hydration and nutrition.
Trigeminal ganglion: A sensory nerve ganglion that carries facial sensation and houses latent herpes simplex virus type 1. Latent virus can reactivate from this ganglion and return to oral tissues.
Acyclovir: An antiviral medicine that inhibits replication of herpes simplex and several related viruses. Early treatment may shorten severe primary episodes, especially in patients at higher risk.

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