Infections with Herpes Simplex Viruses

The Clinical Spectrum of HSV InfectionsHerpes simplex virus (HSV) has been isolated from nearly all visceral and mucocutaneous sites. The clinical manifestations and course of HSV infections depend on the anatomic site of the infection, the age and immune status of the host, and the antigenic type of the virus. First episodes of HSV disease, especially primary infections — that is, first infections with either HSV-1 or HSV-2 in which the host lacks HSV antibodies in acute-phase serum — are frequently accompanied by systemic signs and symptoms, involve both mucosal and extramucosal sites, are characterized by a longer duration . . .