Anogenital herpes

Abstract

Herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) seroprevalence increases with age up to 80%, while sero-prevalence of HSV-2 increases following adolescence, suggesting sexual transmission. Only 2–20% of people with HSV-2 antibodies can recall a symptomatic episode, while others are troubled with frequent and severe recurrences. A primary outbreak of genital herpes at the time of delivery is an indication for caesarean section, although with a recurrent episode of herpes, vaginal delivery is usually recommended, due to low risk of complications for the neonate. This chapter discusses epidemiology, clinical features, diagnosis and management of ano-genital herpes for primary outbreak and recurrences, as well as management in pregnancy.