Definition for Genital herpes
From Biology Forums Dictionary
Genital herpes manifests as numerous small blisters on the genitals, around the rectum, or on adjacent areas of skin. The blisters burn and itch before breaking to become painful ulcers. Patients experience fever, myalgia, malaise, and decreased appetite. Two enveloped dsDNA viruses called herpes simplex viruses (HSV) cause herpes. About 85% of cases involve HSV-2. HSV-1 (oral herpesvirus) causes the remaining cases, usually following oral-genital contact. Infected people can shed herpesviruses in mucous secretions even in the absence of lesions. The virus typically enters a latent phase in nerve ganglia, becoming active and triggering recurrent, though less severe, episodes for years. Herpesviruses also spread by nonsexual contact, such as during vaginal birth, or via contact with herpes blisters on the skin, a condition called ''whitlow''. There is no cure; however, symptoms can be relieved with administration of acyclovir. Abstinence or monogamy is preventive. Cesarean birth is required if a pregnant woman has lesions at the time of delivery.
See also: Genital warts
