Herpes and stress

Abstract

The interface between Dermatology and Psychiatry is a ripe field of research with increasing recognition. The study of the diseases in that boundary (psychodermatologic disorders) may amplify the knowledge about several skin conditions. Skin diseases due to human herpesviruses have a strong correlation with the host’s immunity. In the last decades, it has been discussed the interconnection between skin, immunity, endocrine and central nervous systems. In this context, it has been reported that the skin manifestations of human herpesviruses have a deep relationship with the psychological state of the patient, with correlated biological changes. For instance, some studies have pointed out a correlation between higher scores of depression and anxiety and a predisposition for herpesviruses reactivation and frequent recurrences. Furthermore, these clinical findings have been related to biological mechanisms involving the systems mentioned above. Moreover, interestingly, cognitive behavior therapy and hypnosis have been described as effective to control the severity and recurrence of skin manifestations caused by human herpesviruses infections. In this chapter, we discuss the recent knowledge on the link between psychological stress and skin conditions due to human herpesviruses.