Herpangina is a viral illness characterized by ulcers and lesions (sores) inside the mouth, sore throat, and fever. Even though the name sounds like herpes , almost all of the many viruses that cause it are coxsackieviruses or other enteroviruses -not herpesvirus. There are actually many different types of Coxsackie virus which cause several different diseases; herpangina is cause by only one or two of these “serotypes”. It is typically occurs during the summer and frequently in children, but also young adults. Various enteroviruses cause the condition. If similar shallow blister-like lesions appear on the palms or soles, it may be called hand, foot, and mouth disease. The lesions in the mouth are round macules (nonraised spots) about 2 mm (0.1 inch) in diameter, occurring predominantly on the soft palate and tonsils. Usually, herpangina is produced by one particular strain of coxsackievirus A, but it can also be caused by coxsackievirus B or echoviruses. It is most common in children.

Herpangina is an acute febrile illness associated with small vesicular or ulcerative lesions on the posterior oropharyngeal structures. The herpangina virus can be spread by saliva and mouth-to-mouth contact, as well as by contact with an infected person’s stools. It usually takes 3-6 days after exposure to become infected. Fresh water sources (eg, lakes) may act as a reservoir for transmission. A diagnosis can be made from clinical signs and symptoms, and treatment consists of minimizing the discomfort of symptoms. While it is possible to have these infections more than once, it is relatively rare, and most adult caregivers are not at risk of contracting the disease from affected children. A unique on line resource of interactive and challenging web based learning materials that make dentistry exciting. We can also see blisters around the outside of the mouth.

Causes of Herpangina

The comman causes of Herpangina include the following:

• Herpangina is caused by several Coxsackie A viruses.
• This virus is transmitted in saliva.
• Coxsackievirus B 1-5.
• Echovirus 3, 6, 9, 11, 16, 17, 22, 25, and 30.
• Enterovirus 71.
• Herpangina is characterized by mouth ulcers, but a high fever , sore throat , and headache may precede the appearance of the lesions.
• The herpangina virus can be spread by saliva and mouth-to-mouth contact, as well as by contact with an infected person’s stools.

Symptoms of Herpangina

Some sign and symptoms related to Herpangina are as follows:

• Ulcers on the lips, gums, tongue, inside of the cheeks, and the back of the throat.
• Small blisters surrounded by redness and pus on the roof of the mouth, inside of the cheeks, and the back of the throat.
• Malaise: Most symptomatic patients report this complaint.
• Poor appetite (because of the pain involved with the oral lesions) — which can result in dehydration.
• Anorexia, emesis, or abdominal pain, which may mimic an appendicitis.
• Infants may appear listless.
• Similar lesions on feet, hands, buttocks.
• Fever.
• Sore throat, or painful swallowing.

Treatment of Herpangina

Here is list of the methods for treating Herpangina:

• OTC throat sprays to reach lesions in the back of the mouth for older children who can cooperate.
• In severe cases, prescription topical medications prepared by a pharmacist, or oral medications containing codeine may be useful
• Hydration.
• Antipyretics (eg, acetaminophen, ibuprofen).
• A nonaspirin medication such as Tylenol can be used for the fever and pain.
• Acetaminophen or ibuprofen by mouth for fever and discomfort as recommended.
• Non-irritating diet.
• Increased fluid intake.