Primary herpetic gingivostomatitis - Clinical aspects and anti-viral treatment

Herpetic gingivostomatitis is the most common specific, clinical manifestation of primary herpes simplex type I infection. It is prevalent in the 1-3-year age group. The disease involves the buccal and gingival mucosa, and tongue and lasts approximately 2 weeks. Two recent open studies reported a more rapid regression of symptoms after treatment with acyclovir suspension. Three randomized double-blind placebo-control trials have clearly demonstrated that early acyclovir treatment significantly shortens the duration of all clinical manifestations and infectivity of affected children compared to placebo. Recommendation: In conclusion, we recommend acyclovir for the treatment of herpetic gingivostomatitis. Treatment should begin within the first three days of disease onset. The proposed therapeutic dose is 15mg/kg, 5 times daily for 5 days.