Can't tell: Before the 1970's there was a fairly well defined division of hsv 1 above the waist, hsv 2 below. For the most part, it's still true with about 80% hsv 1 being above the waist. The only way to tell is to culture the lesion when it is active. Interestingly, herpes zoster is sometimes difficult to differentiate from herpes simplex if it is not a complete dermatomal (linear) eruption. See your derm.
Answered 11/5/2015
5.1k views
A doctor has provided 1 answer
A doctor has provided 1 answer
4 doctors weighed in across 2 answers
90,000 U.S. doctors in 147 specialties are here to answer your questions or offer you advice, prescriptions, and more.
Ask your question