Follow up: dr. raff -- you said that canker sores do not cause genital herpes. are canker sores herpes simplex 1 just like a cold sore?

NO: Canker sores, also known at apthous ulcers, are not caused by the herpes virus. They are the result of a break in the skin by either trauma or an autoimmune problem that becomes infected with the bacteria that naturally live in your mouth. Apthous ulcers usually last 1-2 weeks and resolve on their own. If there is a mouth ulcer that persists, it may be of another origin, and should be examined.

Aphthous stomatitis: Aphthous stomatitis (cancer sores) is not caused by the herpes simplex virus.

Canker sores: Aphthous stomatitis is not due to herpes simplex. Dr. Namey and dr. Perkins have provided excellent advice and would read these carefully. The location of the herpetic lesions (oral v. Genital) no longer is specific for types 1;2. Cold sores may be herpetic, but not canker sores.