ACUTE HERPETIC GINGIVOSTOMATITIS

Done by : Ahmed Al-Asmari

Introduction :

The herpes virus is ubiquitous, passing from person to person through contaminated secretions or lesions. At least 70% of the American population has been infected, likely occurring in early childhood (Murph & Grose, 1999). Worldwide, the rate of infection is over 85% (Rosen & Ablon, 1997).

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After levels of passively acquired maternal antibodies have diminished, infants and young children are at increased risk for acquiring infections. Sealander and Kerr (1989) reported that children ages 2 to 4 are most susceptible to herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections.

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The majority of primary HSV-1 infections are asymptomatic or mild enough to go unrecognized (Amir, Harel, Smetana, & Varsano, 1997; White, 1998).

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the most frequent manifestation of initial HSV-1 disease in young children is primary herpetic gingivostomatitis (PHGS) (Amir et al., 1997; Murph & Grose, 1999). This occurs in 25-30% of affected children (Amir et al., 1997).

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The virus spreads easily among young children through saliva (spit), shared toys, drink cups, or eating utensils.

Reference :

Jo Young Blevins, 2003 , Primary Herpetic Gingivostomatitis in Young Children , 2003 Jannetti Publications, Inc.