Cutaneous viral disease is a medical classification that refers to viral diseases that are related to or affect the skin. Usually, there are lesions and papules on the skin, which can remain for a long period of time and are likely to return after disappearing for a while.
These viruses are extremely contagious, and physical contact with an infected person is one of the major reasons for their spread. The common types of viral cutaneous diseases are:
Warts: This viral infection is caused by Human Papillomavirus (HPV) with the formation of bumps on the skin. They can be contagious and painful, making a person uncomfortable.
Oral Herpes: It’s a common viral infection that is related to sores around the mouth area caused by a virus called Herpes Simplex Virus type 1 (HSV-1). This is a lifetime infection, and the virus sometimes lies in a group of nerve cells in an inactive form. Its symptoms vary from person to person.
Genital Herpes: It is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that occurs when human contact with HSV-1 or HSV-2 virus results in some herpetic sores on the genital area. These sores are painful blisters with fluid inside them.
Molluscum Contagiosum: It is a skin infection caused by a virus called molluscum contagiosum. After contact with this virus, some benign lesions or bumps are developed on the outer layer of the skin. It’s a painless disease and rarely leaves scars after treatment.
The signs and symptoms of skin infections vary from type to type. However, some common symptoms include the following:
Major signs that indicate a severe infection are:
A major cause of cutaneous viral infection is the occurrence of cellulitis or abscess that allow the virus to enter the skin of the human body and cause infection. Moreover, the intensity of infections may vary from mild to severe. Common viruses that are responsible for causing skin infections are:
Herpes Simplex: This virus can cause infections of both genital and oral herpes. However, some people experience some sores, while others may not show any visible symptoms of this infection.
Parvovirus: Parvovirus B19 spreads through respiratory secretions and causes a mild rash that usually affects children.
Arbovirus: A term used to describe skin infections caused by the bite of infected arthropods, for instance, mosquitoes and ticks.
The above are the most common viruses known to cause skin problems. There are other viruses that cause viral skin infections like chickenpox, COVID-19, hand, foot and mouth disease, measles, rubella, etc.
Some major risk factors of cutaneous viral infections are:
Smoking: Smoking increases incidents of the common cold and cough, lowers immunity levels, and elevates the chances of infection.
Poor Hygiene: Contaminated food and drinks are a major risk factor for cutaneous viral infection.
Congested Area: Crowded places will likely cause viral skin infections faster due to close interaction with infected droplets and people.
Skin lesions can assist in diagnosing viral skin infections. However, some laboratory and clinical tests may be used to provide further insight if your skin does not provide clear answers.
Biopsy, removing a small piece of skin to examine under a microscope.
Culture, collecting a skin sample to test for bacteria, fungus or viruses.
Skin patch test, applying a small volume of substances on the skin to test for allergic reactions.
Black light examination (Wood light test), using an ultraviolet (UV) light to view your skin’s pigment more distinctly.
Antihistamines can help to reduce itching. Moreover, some cold compresses are also used to decrease itching and inflammation. Using topical creams and ointments can be helpful to comfort the infected site and soothe it.
To prevent viral infections, increasing the frequency of hand washing and covering your face and nose while sneezing and coughing are essential. Consult your doctor if you experience any discomfort on your skin to get the necessary treatment as soon as possible.