Pathology · single question
Which virus can mimic pulpitis?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: B. Herpes zoster virus (VZV)
- A. Coxsackievirus causes herpangina and hand-foot-mouth disease; does not mimic pulpitis.
- B. Herpes zoster (VZV reactivation/shingles) affecting trigeminal dental branches causes severe spontaneous tooth pain that exactly mimics irreversible pulpitis. The teeth test vital with no pathology. Patients may present to the dentist before the characteristic vesicular rash appears.
- C. HPV causes oral warts/condylomata; no pain mimicking pulpitis.
- D. HSV causes herpetic gingivostomatitis/cold sores; it can cause oral pain but does not classically mimic pulpitis.