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Genital Herpes Supportive Care — SCE Infectious Diseases MCQ

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HardSTIsGenital Herpes Supportive CareSCE Infectious Diseases

A first episode of painful genital HSV ulceration causes severe dysuria, but the patient is able to void and has started oral antiviral therapy. Which supportive package is appropriate?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: A — Offer simple analgesia, topical lidocaine, saline bathing, hydration and clear counselling on transmission and recurrence with review

The best answer is “Offer simple analgesia, topical lidocaine, saline bathing, hydration and clear counselling on transmission and recurrence with review”. Pain control and practical voiding measures complement antiviral therapy, while counselling supports informed sexual-health decisions. “Perform immediate biopsy of every PCR-confirmed ulcer” does not match the decisive clinical feature or cited guidance. “Use cryotherapy because HSV persists in ulcer bases” does not match the decisive clinical feature or cited guidance. “Use codeine alone and avoid local measures” does not match the decisive clinical feature or cited guidance. “Apply potent topical corticosteroid directly to active ulcers” does not match the decisive clinical feature or cited guidance.

Reference: BASHH genital herpes guideline: https://www.bashh.org/resources/5/guidelines_genital_herpes_2014/