What is Herpetic Stomatitis?
Disease description:
During this period, many small blisters have appeared in my mouth, causing significant pain. After visiting the hospital for examination, the doctor diagnosed it as herpetic stomatitis. I have never heard of this condition before—what exactly is herpetic stomatitis?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Guo Huijie
Herpetic stomatitis is an oral disease caused by the herpes simplex virus, primarily characterized by vesicular inflammation on the skin and mucous membranes of the oral cavity. The disease is mainly transmitted through respiratory droplets, saliva, and direct contact with vesicular fluid, but can also spread indirectly via eating utensils and clothing. Herpetic stomatitis commonly affects children under six years old. During the prodromal stage, symptoms such as fever, headache, fatigue, and muscle pain may occur. After widespread congestion and edema of the oral mucosa, the disease progresses to the vesicular stage, during which clusters of clear small blisters form. These blisters rupture easily, subsequently forming ulcerated areas. The illness typically lasts 7 to 10 days and is self-limiting, although it may recur. Treatment for herpetic stomatitis primarily involves antiviral therapy, along with maintaining oral hygiene and dietary management.
