herpes sim·plex -'sim-.pleks n either of two viral diseases caused by herpesviruses of the genus Simplexvirus that are marked esp. by watery blisters on the skin or mucous membranes of the lips, mouth, face, or genital region see hsv-1, hsv-2
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a group of acute infections caused by human herpesviruses 1 and 2, characterized by small fluid-filled vesicles on the skin or a mucous membrane with a raised erythematous base; it may be a primary infection or recurrent because of reactivation of a latent infection. Type 1 herpesvirus infections usually involve nongenital regions of the body, whereas type 2 infections are primarily on the genitals and surrounding areas, although there is overlap between the two types. Precipitating factors include fever, exposure to cold temperature or ultraviolet rays, sunburn, cutaneous or mucosal abrasions, emotional stress, and nerve injury.
Herpes simplex, characterized by grouped epidermal vesicles and dermal erythema.
Medical dictionary. 2011.