WAIKOLOA, HAWAII – Athletes who wrestle, play rugby, or engage in any sport “where there’s a grinding of skin on skin” are at risk for herpes simplex gladiatorum, according to Dr. Andrew Krakowski.
The risk is exacerbated by the occlusive uniforms worn by athletes, which maintain a high moisture content – creating an environment hospitable to the spread of viruses, explained Dr. Krakowski, chief medical officer at DermOne, West Conshohocken, Pa.
In an interview at the Hawaii Dermatology Seminar, the dermatologist explained how HSV gladiatorum differs in appearance from classic vesicular herpes simplex, and how dermatologists and primary care physicians may misdiagnose these rashes as impetigo – or miss the diagnosis altogether.
He also provides recommendations on how to treat this condition when it is diagnosed and outlines measures to reduce the spread of the virus.
The Hawaii Dermatology Seminar is provided by Global Academy for Medical Education/Skin Disease Education Foundation. SDEF and this news organization are owned by the same parent company.
Dr. Krakowski is a consultant to Galderma and Valeant.