Herpès

Herpes Simplex Viruses (HSV1 and HSV2) refer to members of the herpes-viridae family that infect strictly human beings and cause a range of benign and recurrent diseases from mild muco-cutaneous infections to more severe forms such as meningo-encephalitis and visceral complications in newborns and immuno-depressed patients. HSV1 oro-facial infection is acquired in infancy, whereas HSV2 usually causes genital herpes (60-80 %), the most frequent ulcerous sexually transmitted infection worldwide which facilitates VIH infection. After primary contact (primary infection) both viruses establish latent infection in sensitive ganglionnic neurons, and reactivation causes herpetic muco-cutaneous recurrences. Asymptomatic viral shedding in genital areas (cervix, vulva, anal, urethral) represents a major source of HSV2 transmission. Aciclovir and precursor drugs (valaciclovir, famciclovir) are highly effective in treating HSV infections, preventing recurrences and improving patient's quality of life. Potential seriousness of neonatal herpes justifies its prophylactic management.