What is herpes?
Herpes simplex virus infection, commonly called herpes, can be caused by herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) or herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2). HSV-1 is spread primarily by mouth-to-mouth contact and causes infections in or around the mouth (cold sores). However, HSV-1 can also be transmitted to the genital area through orogenital contact and cause genital herpes. HSV-2 is transmitted almost exclusively by genital contact during sexual intercourse and causes infections of the genital or anal area (genital herpes).
Both labial and genital herpetic infections are usually asymptomatic or go unrecognized, but can cause symptoms, such as painful blisters or ulcers at the site of infection, that can range from mild to severe.
It is divided into two types of Herpes
Herpes simplex virus 1 infection is a common disease. The virus enters the host through mucous membranes (typically saliva) or skin lesions, where it can cause cold sores, however, it can also cause genital herpes via orogenital contact.
The infection is usually asymptomatic, so most people who have it are unable to notice it. When symptoms occur, lesions can be observed in the mouth and surroundings, which previously produce a burning or tingling sensation. After the first infection, the lesions may recur periodically, with the frequency varying between individuals. Genital herpes is characterized by genital or anal vesicles or ulcers.
The virus is highly contagious when ulcers are present, which is why people with active symptoms of herpes should avoid oral contact with other people, as well as avoid sharing objects that have been in contact with the person’s saliva. with herpes.
HSV-2 is transmitted mostly during sexual intercourse, where there is contact between the genitals, skin, or fluids of a person infected with herpes. Transmission frequently occurs in the absence of symptoms.
Although rare, the virus can be passed from mother to newborn during childbirth and cause neonatal herpes.
Genital herpes infection is usually asymptomatic, or mild symptoms are present. When symptoms do appear, viral infection is characterized by the presence of vesicles or ulcers on the genitals and anal region, which may be accompanied by fever, pain, and adenopathy.
Process to carry out the study
You should only contact us to schedule an appointment one day in advance, we recommend having 3 days of sexual abstinence and prior washing with neutral soap. We perform the detection of Herpes Simplex 1 and 2 from samples obtained through urethral and cervicovaginal exudate.
Technique: PCR (polymerase chain reaction)
Type: qualitative (detection)
