ABSTRACT
Infections caused by herpes simplex virus (HSV) types 1 and 2 are ubiquitous, occurring worldwide. These infections usually occur asymptomatically and are generally limited to the skin and mucous membranes. However, in immunocompromised hosts, including patients with malignancies or organ transplant recipients, infection can be severe, prolonged, and involve other organs. Transmission of HSV most often occurs in association with intimate personal contact with infected secretions. HSV-1 is transmitted primarily by oral secretions and HSV-2 by genital secretions. Knowledge of the pathogenesis and natural history of these infections is essential if adequate strategies for prevention and treatment are to be developed.1
