DefinitionHerpetic stomatitis is a viral infection of the mouth that causes ulcers and inflammation. These mouth ulcers are not the same as canker sores, which are caused by a different virus.Alternative NamesStomatitis - herpeticCauses, incidence, and risk factorsHerpetic stomatitis is a contagious viral illness caused by Herpes virus hominis (also herpes simplex virus, HSV). It is seen mainly in young children. This condition is probably a child's first exposure to the herpes virus.An adult member of the family may have a cold sore at the time the child develops herpetic stomatitis. More likely, no source for the infection will be discovered.SymptomsBlisters in the mouth, often on the tongue or cheeksDecrease in food intake, even if the patient is hungryDifficulty swallowing (dysphagia)D