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Herpes Simplex Virus

HSV is a double-stranded DNA virus with two genomic subtypes:

  • HSV-1 is found in lesions in and around the mouth and is transmitted through direct contact or droplet spread.
  • HSV-2 is the primary cause of most genital herpes infections and is transmitted through sexual routes.

Herpes Virus | Medical Science Optional Notes for UPSC

Between 1 and 26 days, an accurate clinical diagnosis can be established when characteristic multiple vesicular lesions on an erythematous base are observed, as depicted in the image.

Herpes Virus | Medical Science Optional Notes for UPSC

Question for Herpes Virus
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Which subtype of the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) is primarily responsible for most genital herpes infections?
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HSV 1 vs HSV 2

Herpes Virus | Medical Science Optional Notes for UPSC

Pathogenicity

Herpes Virus | Medical Science Optional Notes for UPSC

One of the most prevalent viral infections in humans is sourced from saliva, skin lesions, and respiratory secretions.

Question for Herpes Virus
Try yourself:
What is the main difference between HSV 1 and HSV 2 in terms of pathogenicity?
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Lab Diagnosis of Herpes Virus

Herpes Virus | Medical Science Optional Notes for UPSC

Herpes Virus | Medical Science Optional Notes for UPSC

Wright or Giemsa stain

Herpes Virus | Medical Science Optional Notes for UPSC

Herpes Virus-Repeats

  • Provide a description of herpes viruses and the lesions they produce (1995).
  • Explore the pathogenicity and laboratory diagnosis of Herpes simplex virus infection (2001).
  • Delve into the pathogenicity and laboratory diagnosis of Herpes simplex virus (2013).
The document Herpes Virus | Medical Science Optional Notes for UPSC is a part of the UPSC Course Medical Science Optional Notes for UPSC.
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FAQs on Herpes Virus - Medical Science Optional Notes for UPSC

1. What is the difference between HSV 1 and HSV 2?
Ans. HSV 1 and HSV 2 are two different strains of the Herpes Simplex Virus. HSV 1 is typically associated with oral herpes, causing cold sores or fever blisters around the mouth and on the face. HSV 2, on the other hand, is primarily responsible for genital herpes, causing sores and blisters in the genital area. However, it is important to note that both strains can infect either location.
2. How does the Herpes Simplex Virus cause disease?
Ans. The Herpes Simplex Virus enters the body through direct contact with an infected person's skin or mucous membranes. After entering the body, the virus replicates and travels along nerve fibers to the sensory nerve ganglia, where it establishes a lifelong infection. This can lead to recurrent outbreaks of sores and blisters in the affected area, accompanied by symptoms such as itching, tingling, and pain.
3. How is herpes virus diagnosed in the laboratory?
Ans. Laboratory diagnosis of herpes virus involves several methods. One common approach is to collect a swab sample from a suspected lesion or sore and perform polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing to detect and amplify the viral DNA. Another method is viral culture, where the swab sample is used to grow the virus in a laboratory setting. Additionally, blood tests can be conducted to detect the presence of herpes antibodies, indicating a past or current infection.
4. What is the pathogenicity of the Herpes Simplex Virus?
Ans. The Herpes Simplex Virus is highly pathogenic, meaning it has the ability to cause disease in humans. Its pathogenicity is attributed to its ability to establish a lifelong infection and reactivate periodically, leading to recurrent outbreaks of sores and blisters. The virus can also cause more severe complications, such as encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) and neonatal herpes (infection in newborns), particularly if transmitted during childbirth.
5. Can herpes simplex virus be completely cured?
Ans. Currently, there is no cure for herpes simplex virus infection. Once a person is infected, the virus remains in their body for life, residing in the nerve ganglia. However, antiviral medications can help manage symptoms, reduce the frequency and duration of outbreaks, and lower the risk of transmission to others. It is important for individuals with herpes to practice safe sex, use barrier methods, and inform their sexual partners to minimize the risk of spreading the virus.
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