Neobook — clinical reference

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ICD 10 code: B00.0-4/B00.7-9

DESCRIPTION

Infection caused by herpes simplex virus type 1 or 2
Primary herpes infection involving gingivostomatitis (usually type 1) or the genital area (usually type 2) may be extensive, but may occur at other sites, e.g. the face
It is characterised by grouped crusted vesicles surrounded by erythema. The vesicles rupture soon producing discrete ulcers
Recurrences are usually mild and last a few days, except in immunosuppressed patients. Recurrences of oral herpes may be triggered by other respiratory tract infections or exposure to ultraviolet light
Sufferers of atopic eczema are particularly susceptible to the virus and may present with large areas of involvement with numerous vesicles and crusting surrounded by erythema (eczema herpeticum)
Herpes simplex mucocutaneous ulceration that persists for > 1 month is an AIDS-defining illness. See: Herpes simplex ulcers, chronic
Herpes simplex infection may be the precipitating event in many cases of erythema multiforme

GENERAL MEASURES

Keep the skin lesions clean and dry

MEDICINE TREATMENT

Extensive herpes, eczema herpeticum or chronic mucocutaneous ulcerations:

Children < 15 years of age

Antiviral, (active against herpes simplex) e.g.:
- Aciclovir, oral, 250 mg/m²/dose, 8 hourly for 7 days. See: dosing table

Children ≥ 15 years of age and adults

Antiviral, (active against herpes simplex) e.g.:
- Aciclovir, oral, 400 mg, 8 hourly for 7 days

LoE: IIIb²⁹

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Standard Treatment Guidelines and Essential Medicines List for South Africa, Primary Healthcare, 2020-2024_Version 1.0_07 November 2024

Chapter 5: Skin Conditions_5.13 Herpes Simplex

Herpes Simplex

Drugs mentioned

ICD-10 codes