Herpes gladiatorum

Definition

Herpes gladiatorum is a skin infection caused by the herpes simplex virus, commonly affecting athletes involved in contact sports. It is characterized by painful vesicular lesions on the skin.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Herpes gladiatorum is caused by HSV-1, the same virus responsible for oral herpes.
2. It spreads through direct skin-to-skin contact, particularly in situations involving close physical activity such as wrestling.
3. Symptoms include clusters of fluid-filled blisters, fever, swollen lymph nodes, and malaise.
4. Diagnosis is typically made based on clinical appearance and can be confirmed with viral cultures or PCR tests.
5. Treatment includes antiviral medications like acyclovir to reduce symptoms and prevent recurrence.

Related terms

HSV-1:

Herpes Simplex Virus type 1, commonly causing oral herpes.

Viral Culture:

A laboratory test used to detect viral infections by growing the virus from a sample.

Acyclovir:

An antiviral medication used to treat infections caused by herpes viruses.