Presentation and Diagnosis of cold sores

The first symptoms usually appear within 1 or 2 weeks after contact with an infected person. The lesions usually last for 7–10 days, then begin to resolve. Initial symptoms of itching, burning or tingling sensation may occur about 2 days before lesions appear. The infection is associated with mild fever.

The diagnosis is made on the basis of the appearance or culture of the lesion. Examination may also show enlarged lymph nodes in the neck or groin.

Written by: healthplus24 team
Date last modified: August 10, 2011