Pathology · single question
Most common location of recurrent herpes simplex (intraoral recurrence):
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. Attached gingiva (and hard palate)
- A. Correct. Intraoral recurrent HSV lesions classically occur on keratinized tissue — the attached gingiva and hard palate — distinguishing them from herpetiform aphthous ulcers, which occur on non-keratinized mucosa.
- B. Buccal mucosa is non-keratinized and is the more typical site for aphthous ulcers, not recurrent intraoral herpes.
- C. Floor of mouth is non-keratinized tissue, atypical for recurrent intraoral HSV.
- D. Soft palate is non-keratinized tissue, atypical for recurrent intraoral HSV (primary HSV can involve broader mucosa, but RECURRENT lesions favor keratinized tissue).