Viral infections of the skin: clinical features and treatment options
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Viral infections of the skin: clinical features and treatment options

Heather Newton Consultant nurse tissue viability, Dermatology Unit, Royal Cornwall Hospital Trust, Truro

Viral infections of the skin can cause significant distress and embarrassment for people who are affected. This article explores four specific viral infections that manifest on the skin: herpes simplex, herpes zoster, viral warts and molluscum contagiosum. It describes the presentation and appearance of the virus as it affects the skin and what can be done to minimise the spread of the virus. Management options are considered, although many of these conditions are self-limiting.

Nursing Standard. 27, 52, 43-47. doi: 10.7748/ns2013.08.27.52.43.e7675

Peer review

This article has been subject to double blind peer review

Received: 14 March 2013

Accepted: 24 June 2013

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