This is an acute viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus and which affects the oral mucosa of children and adolescents.  It is preceeded by a general malaise, fever and submaxillary adenopathy.  There is a reddening of the mucosa followed by the  appearance of numerous vesicles which break open easily, leaving behind very painful ulcerations. The patient presents with pain, sialorrhea, halitosis, irritability, insomnia and loss of appetite.  Malnourished children and those convalescent with an infectious process of the respiratory or digestive systems are more frequently affected.  After 10 to 12 days the disease cures spontaneously.

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