Herpes Dermatitis

Herpes Dermatitis

Herpes dermatitis, also known as herpes gladiatorum, is a skin infection caused by the Herpes Simplex type 1 virus. This skin infection is spread by direct skin-to-skin contact. Lesions appear as a cluster of blisters and may be on the face, extremities or trunk. Before skin lesions appear, some people have a sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, fever or tingling on the skin. Wrestlers and rugby players are especially vulnerable to this disease and exposure.

Information for the General Public

• Fact Sheet
• Skin Infections in Athletes

Information for Healthcare Professionals

• American Academy of Family Physicians
• Skin Infections in Wrestlers (PDF)

Resources

• Healthline
• Minnesota Department of Health