Genital Herpes: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Counseling in the Adolescent Patient

Abstract 

Genital herpes is one of the most prevalent sexually transmitted infections. An estimated 22% of the U.S. population older than 14 years is infected with herpes simplex virus-2 (HSV), with an additional 1.6 million new infections per year. The presentation of an infection can range from classic (multiple, painful, small vesicles on an erythematous base) to asymptomatic, and can be confused with a myriad of other conditions (urinary tract infections, candidiasis, bug bites). Diagnosis requires a combination of clinical presentation and laboratory studies. In addition, a diagnosis of HSV can have a profound psychological effect and must be tailored to the individual patient. The Centers for Disease Center (CDC) recommends initial and continued counseling regarding HSV and its treatment. This article reviews the diagnosis, treatment, and counseling of HSV genital infection in the adolescent.

Keywords:  adolescent , genital herpes , HSV , HSV counseling