Erythema Multiforme versus Herpes Simplex Virus, what is the diagnosis? A review and a case report.

Abstract

One of the commonly encountered lesions in oral cavity is oral ulceration. They arise from various etiology, being associated with discomfort or pain, rarely results in complications and scarring. The nonspecific clinical presentation of oral ulceration in the oral cavity, will made their diagnosis crucial, however a detailed patient history, comprehensive clinical examination together with background knowledge of possible causes will lead to correct diagnosis and subsequent treatment, moreover distinguishing between erythema multiforme (EM) and herpes simples viral infection (HSV) when there is only oral involvement is of a great importance as the treatment of EM is contra indicated for HSV.