skip to main content

Primary Herpetic Gingivostomatitis — NDEB AFK MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

EasyOral MedicinePrimary Herpetic GingivostomatitisNDEB AFK

A child aged 18 months presents with high fever, irritability, cervical lymphadenopathy, and multiple small vesicles and ulcers on the gingiva, tongue, lips, and palatal mucosa. What is the most likely diagnosis?

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

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: D — Primary herpetic gingivostomatitis

Primary herpetic gingivostomatitis (PHGS) is the most common clinical presentation of primary HSV-1 infection in children (typically 6 months to 5 years). It presents with systemic signs (fever, malaise, lymphadenopathy, irritability) and diffuse vesicles/ulcers affecting the gingiva (swollen, erythematous, painful), tongue, palate, lips, and perioral skin. It is self-limiting (10-14 days) with supportive treatment (hydration, antipyretics, topical anaesthetics). Herpangina (Coxsackievirus) affects the posterior oropharynx only and has milder systemic features.

Reference: Neville – Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology, 4th ed., 2016