[Herpes simplex virus infections].

There are two serological types of herpes simplex virus, HSV-1 and HSV-2. The types can be differentiated by different methods. After a primary infection HSV reaches the sensory ganglions by the way of peripheral nervous tracts. The virus remains for life in the ganglion as virus genome. After activation and return movement a new infection can appear. A lot of various diseases are caused by primary infection, reactivation or reinfection. The diagnosis in herpes virus diseases includes the detection of virus or viral antigens and the demonstration of specific antibodies against HSV. Effective antiviral drugs are available for chemotherapy of HSV-infection. Acyclovir is a beneficial drug without toxic secondary effects. The prevalence of HSV-antibodies in the population is very high.