What is the primary treatment approach for a case of Primary Herpetic Stomatitis?

What is the primary treatment approach for a case of Primary Herpetic Stomatitis?

• A. Antiviral therapy
• B. Antibiotics
• C. Palliative care
• D. Topical steroids

Answer: (C)

In cases of Primary Herpetic Stomatitis, the primary treatment approach is mainly supportive and focuses on palliative care. This condition, often caused by the herpes simplex virus, typically manifests with painful lesions in the mouth, fever, and general discomfort. Palliative care aims to alleviate symptoms such as pain and dehydration, allowing the individual to remain comfortable while the infection resolves on its own, as most cases are self-limiting and will heal within two to three weeks. While antiviral therapy can be beneficial in certain situations, such as reducing the duration of symptoms or complications in more severe cases or immunocompromised patients, it is not typically the first line of treatment for uncomplicated cases of Primary Herpetic Stomatitis. Antibiotics would not be appropriate since the infection is viral, and antibiotics are ineffective against viruses. Topical steroids are generally not recommended for this condition, as they might impede healing or complicate the viral infection. Thus, the focus on palliative care encompasses managing pain, hydration, and providing the necessary supportive measures until the body can clear the virus naturally.

In cases of Primary Herpetic Stomatitis, the primary treatment approach is mainly supportive and focuses on palliative care. This condition, often caused by the herpes simplex virus, typically manifests with painful lesions in the mouth, fever, and general discomfort. Palliative care aims to alleviate symptoms such as pain and dehydration, allowing the individual to remain comfortable while the infection resolves on its own, as most cases are self-limiting and will heal within two to three weeks.

While antiviral therapy can be beneficial in certain situations, such as reducing the duration of symptoms or complications in more severe cases or immunocompromised patients, it is not typically the first line of treatment for uncomplicated cases of Primary Herpetic Stomatitis. Antibiotics would not be appropriate since the infection is viral, and antibiotics are ineffective against viruses. Topical steroids are generally not recommended for this condition, as they might impede healing or complicate the viral infection. Thus, the focus on palliative care encompasses managing pain, hydration, and providing the necessary supportive measures until the body can clear the virus naturally.