Detection of Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV II) in biological material by PCR method, qualitative
Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 (HSV-2) is a virus of the Herpesviridae family that remains in the body for life after primary infection (within nerve ganglia) and is capable of periodic reactivation.
Clinical manifestations
- Genital herpes: painful vesicles, erosions, and ulcers in the genital, anal, and perineal areas.
- Itching, burning, pain, and swelling in the affected area.
- Dysuria, urethritis, and discharge.
- Inguinal lymphadenitis (enlargement and tenderness of lymph nodes).
- Systemic symptoms during the primary episode: fever, weakness, and myalgia.
- Recurrent episodes with less pronounced symptoms.
- Cervical involvement (cervicitis) and vaginal involvement (vaginitis).
- In newborns – neonatal herpes (a severe condition).
- Suspected central nervous system involvement: meningitis/encephalitis (less common but possible).
Features
- Latency and recurrence: the virus persists in the sacral ganglia and periodically reactivates.
- Routes of transmission: primarily through sexual contact (genital, anal, oral); transmission is also possible from asymptomatic carriers.
- High frequency of asymptomatic viral shedding.
- Triggers for recurrence: stress, infections, weakened immunity, hormonal changes, and hypothermia.
- More commonly causes genital herpes (unlike HSV-1, which is classically associated with oral herpes).
- Risk of mother-to-child transmission during childbirth.
- Immunity does not completely eliminate the virus; recurrent episodes may occur.