New Strategies for the Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention of Herpes Simplex in Contact Sports

Sports participation may result in myriad cutaneous manifestations, from mundane findings to life-threatening illnesses. Skin infections are among the most common dermatologic ailments in athletes; herpes simplex is clearly among the most serious for the individual athlete, and ultimately the team. Herpes simplex infection most often involves athletes with extensive skin to skin contact. For a variety of reasons, wrestlers and rugby players seem particularly prone. The keys to thwarting epidemics and reducing an athlete's disqualification period include early diagnosis, rapid institution of therapy, and routine systematic preventative measures. This clinical review examines the classification, epidemiology, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of herpes simplex virus infection as it relates to contact sports. Attention to evidence-based medicine is paid to treatment and prevention techniques. Practical implications for all concerned parties, including athletes, parents, coaches, trainers, and physicians, are discussed.