Herpes simplex infection of the skin

EBM Guidelines
Sep 23, 2024 • Latest change Jan 20, 2026
Alexander Salava

Table of contents

Extract

  • In addition to oral and genital mucosa, a Herpes simplex infection may also occur on the skin.
  • The diagnosis is usually based on the clinical picture and recurrence of symptoms in the same place.
  • A periocular herpes infection requires urgent consultation of an ophthalmologist.
  • Antiviral medication can be used to alleviate the symptoms and shorten the duration of the disease but it will not eradicate the virus.
  • Prophylactic medication can be used for frequently recurring herpes infections.

Read full article of Herpes simplex infection of the skin

Linked evidence summaries

Search terms

B00*, Dermatology, Genital herpes, HSV, HSV-1, HSV-2, HSV1, HSV2, Herpes, Herpes simplex, Herpetic, Herpetic whitlow, Labial herpes, Ocular herpes, Skin, Skin infection, Whitlow