Herpetic stomatitis is an acute oral mucosal infection caused by herpes simplex virus type I (HSV-1), which commonly affects children. It may also occur solely on the lips or perioral skin. Some scholars believe it is primarily associated with direct infection through the respiratory tract, digestive tract, or skin mucosa. According to a clinical report of 754 cases in Shanghai, the condition is more prevalent in winter and spring. The younger the child, the more severe the systemic reaction and oral symptoms. It is most commonly seen in preschool-aged children and is self-limiting.

bubble_chart Clinical Manifestations

The disease often occurs after fever, predominantly affecting the vermilion border of the lips, the adjacent perioral skin, and the oral mucosa. Initially, scattered red macules and papules appear, which quickly develop into small, clustered or dispersed vesicles surrounded by erythema. The lesions are initially itchy, followed by pain. The vesicles soon rupture, forming shallow ulcers that rapidly crust over and heal within a few days. Systemic symptoms may vary from mild to severe, and regional lymph nodes may occasionally be slightly swollen. In infants, lesions on the oral mucosa are often discovered only when refusal to eat and crying occur.

bubble_chart Treatment Measures

There is no specific treatment. Initially, 1% Rivanol wet compresses can be applied, followed by cod liver oil ointment to promote healing and alleviate pain. Use liquid or soft foods, and before eating, rinse or apply 1% Novocaine solution, or apply 0.5% Dicaine to the ulcer to reduce pain.

Systemic symptomatic treatment (or specific treatment) can be administered based on the symptoms.