Recurrent herpes labialis: current treatment perspectives
Sciubba, J.J.
Compendium of Continuing Education in Dentistry 23(7 Suppl 2: 9-12
2002
ISSN/ISBN: 1548-8578 PMID: 12789981 Document Number: 547574
Recurrent herpes simplex infection of the lips and perioral skin is a very common problem in the general population, often leading patients to seek diagnostic and therapeutic intervention from their dental practitioner. Mechanisms for viral reactivation are well known and have led to the development of new classes of systemic and topical drugs that have been shown to be clinically effective in reducing recurrence frequency and duration. This article presents current treatment choices within the context of healthy and immunocompromised patients, as well as more traditional therapies.