Herpes is a chronic disease caused by a viral infection. The most commonly affected parts of the body are the face and genital region. Herpes in children usually affects the face. Symptoms of herpes include a rash on the face with small blisters. The symptoms last for several days, but the virus can remain dormant and recur months to years later. While treatments for herpes can provide symptomatic relief, there is no cure for the disease.
Cause
Herpes infection of the face is most commonly transmitted by salivary contact. Inanimate objects do not transmit the infection. The herpes simplex virus is spread by oral contact such as kissing. It initially grows inside the mouth but quickly spreads to cause an infection around the face. After the initial infection, the virus can lay hidden inside the nerves and cause a future recurrence. Recurrences are milder than the original infection and may be prompted by stress, menses or the onset of cold seasons.
Symptoms
The first herpes occurrence is usually the most severe. Some children may have a mild fever. Small, painful blisters, called vesicles -- on the inside of the mouth and lips -- are the hallmark of infection. These eventually form scabs and disappear. In some children, the gums and the inside of the mouth may become extremely painful and swollen; this condition is called gingivostomatitis. Recurrences can occur months to years after the initial infection. The most common manifestation is described as a cold sore, or fever blister. These are usually a painful ulcer on the lip. The cold sore eventually scabs over and disappears in about a week.
Herpes of the Eye
Herpes infection of the eye is a serious infection and should be treated by an ophthalmologist. The virus may spread to the cornea and cause severe pain, which is aggravated by looking at lights. The eye may have an angry red appearance and children may complain of blurred vision. Severe or repeated infections may eventually lead to blindness.
Treatment
In most cases of herpes, the diagnosis is straightforward and requires no tests. While herpes has no cure, each flare-up of the disease can be managed symptomatically. Antiviral agents, such as acyclovir are effective. If given early enough, they can reduce the duration of the occurrence. These drugs are safe for use in children. In addition, painkillers, such as ibuprofen can be used to lessen the symptoms of each episode. Ocular herpes can also be successfully treated with antivirals.
References
- "Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics, 18th Edition"; Kliegman et al.; 2008
- University of Illinois Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences: Ocular Herpes Simplex
