Is the Naming of Herpes Simplex Gladiatorum Correct?

Abstract

Ηerpes Gladiatorum (HG) outbreaks should be regarded as serious long term infections that can have negative consequences on the health of individual athletes and the athletic community as a whole. Purpose: The main goal of this analysis was to provide a scientific basis and evidence that the herpes infections in athletes caused by Herpes Simplex Virus type I (HSV-1), might not be appropriately called Herpes Gladiatorum (HG), but should be renamed as Herpes Luctatorum (HL). Methods: The methodology of the current study was included the use of systematic review of the writings in the ancient Greek and the modern literature. Results: From literature review and careful consideration of sports scenes, we found that the sport in which there was extensive physical contact in antiquity is wrestling, and this is not a “mono-machia” (single combat). Therefore, the herpes simplex dermatological infections could occur at a priority, as well as in quantity in wrestler athletes (Latin: Luctators), and not in Monomachus (Latin: Gladiators). Conclusion: The most appropriate terminology for skin infections caused by HSV-1 in athletes would thus be Herpes Luctatorum and not Herpes Gladiatorum, as has been widely adopted by the medical community.