Herpetic gingivostomatitis is cause by herpes simplex virus (HSV) and communicated through personal contact. The primary infection is often manifested as an acute herpetic gingivostomatitis where the entire gingiva is red, oedematous and inflamed.
The general symptoms are fever, headache, malaise and pain. After 1 - 2 days small vesicles develop on the oral mucosa.
They rupture, leasing painful ulcers. Treatment is primarily supportive, analgesics, antipyretics, fluid to maintain sufficient hydratation.
In severe cases, hospitalization and antiviral therapy are necessary.