herpetic gingivostomatitis, primary herpetic gingivostomatitis is the most common viral infection of the gum tissue due to herpes simplex type I virus (HSV-1), presenting with fragile vesicles that rapidly progress to painful ulcerations of the gingival tissue. Primary infection also presents with fever, lymphadenopathy, and fatigue. Herpes infections are transmitted by physical contact and typically arise in early childhood. Recurrent herpetic gingivostomatitis occurs in 15% to 45% of the infected population. Treatment includes antiviral medications initiated within the first 3 symptomatic days of lesion onset. See also gingivostomatitis.
