Genital herpes

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Female reproductive anatomy

Herpes - genital; Herpes simplex - genital; Herpesvirus 2; HSV-2

Genital herpes cannot be cured. However, treatment can relieve the symptoms. Medication can rapidly decrease the pain and discomfort associated with an outbreak and can shorten healing time as well.

Three oral agents are currently being prescribed, including acyclovir (Zovirax), famciclovir (Famvir), and valacyclovir (Valtrex).

These medications have been shown to speed the healing and resolution of symptoms in first attacks more than in recurrent episodes of genital HSV-1 and HSV-2 infections. These medications do not cure the herpes infection. Instead, they suppress the symptoms.

If necessary, daily suppressive therapy can be used, and has been shown to reduce the frequency of recurrence among patients with frequent genital herpes outbreaks.

For maximum benefit during recurrences, therapy should be started as soon as the tingling, burning, or itching starts, or as soon as the blisters are noticed. Possible side effects from these medications include: nausea and vomiting, rash, headache, fatigue, tremor, and very rarely, seizures.

Intravenous acyclovir is sometimes needed for severe herpes infections that can involve the brain, eyes, and lungs. These complications typically develop in immunocompromised individuals.

Foscarnet (Foscavir), a powerful anti-viral agent, is the first choice for treatment of herpes strains that have become resistant to acyclovir and similar drugs. Administered intravenously, the drug can have several toxic effects, such as reversible impairment of kidney function or bringing on seizures.

Given these serious side effects, foscarnet is saved only for severe and resistant herpes infections. As with other antiviral drugs, this medication does not cure herpes.

Warm baths may relieve the pain associated with genital lesions. Gentle cleansing with soap and water is recommended. If secondary infection of the skin lesions by bacteria occur, a topical or oral antibiotic can be used.