Herpetic lesion

A 43-year old white Caucasian female addressed to NYCCT Dental clinic for a regular dental cleaning. During medical history check, she mentioned that a few days ago she had fever, she was taking Tylenol (acetaminophen) 2 capsules (125 mg each) every 4 hours to relieve the symptoms. On the day of the appointment she felt the way better. During extraoral examination, on the upper left region of the vermilion boarder a round  8mm purple, slightly raised, tender pustule was notices. The patient was aware of it. She said it appeared about two days ago, and that she often has it when she has cold. I explained her that it is a herpetic lesion (cold sore), and if she uses any anti-viral medications for it. She said she had Acyclovir ointment at home, but she hadn’t used it that time. I recommended her to use it every time she has a cold sore, the sooner the better. I told the patient that her appointment could not be continued because there was a chance to spread the virus during the oral assessment and dental cleaning procedure. The patient was disappointed because she didn’t think it was so serious. Next appointment was scheduled in 7 days.

On the next visit herpetic lesion on the lip was almost healed, just a round purple spot remained in the affected area. The patient was assessed, and received all the necessary treatment.