If you do request a herpes blood test, ask if your doctor is going to be performing a type-specific test. Available from: UW Health [Internet]. Your medical provider will also provide you with information resources that detail current research efforts, prevention methods, and additional treatment methods that may help to manage outbreaks when they occur. Although CDC does not recommend that everyone get tested for herpes, herpes testing may be useful in some situations. Kenilworth (NJ): Merck & Co. Inc.; c2018. Optimal Result: This can affect the infants skin, mouth, eyes, and central nervous system among other areas. For example, infected semen, saliva, vaginal fluid, or blister or sore fluid. It's important to remember that IgG antibodies take longer to produce but last a lifetime, while IgM antibodies are detectable after a few days but dissipate within a few weeks. She burst into tears when I explained the significance or lack thereof with this test, which is very misleading. There are two common blood tests used to identify herpes: IgG and IgM. An acute EBV infection, also called a primary infection, causes mono. Although HSV-1 causes oral herpes, its possible also to be present in genitals if the genitals are in contact with the exposed virus. If you want a complete STD exam, especially if you have multiple sex partners. Some people may only have one outbreak of sores their whole lives, while others break out more often. Herpes Testing HSV 2 IgG, Type Spec Optimal Result: 0 - 0.91 index. In case a mother has an active infection, the virus can be contracted to the baby during birth. And thats not all: IgM tests fail to accurately distinguish between HSV-1 and HSV-2 antibodies, leading them to provide false-positive results for HSV-2. For the most accurate test result, it is recommended to wait 12 16 weeks from the last possible date of exposure before getting an accurate, type-specific blood test in order to allow enough time for antibodies to reach detectable levels. Factors involved to understand the normal range of Herpes simplex virus (HSV) levels: Absence of Herpes Simplex virus in the blood is the normal result of the test. The results of the HSV2 blood test can help you know what to expect for future health needs, what medications may be available to help you manage your symptoms, and ways that you can lower future risks of either obtaining the infection in the future or spreading the infection to future partners. There may also be flu-like symptoms experienced with the first outbreak of symptoms after the initial infection. There is evidence that diagnosing someone without symptoms does not change their sexual behavior. And, if youre concerned about your sexual health for any reason, schedule an appointment with your doctor right away. Illustration by Paige McLaughlin for Verywell Health While herpes blood tests offer a high level of accuracy, they are not infallible. Diagnosing genital herpes in someone without any symptoms caused by the HSV2 virus has not shown to change their sexual behaviors. About 20% to 50% of adults will have antibodies against the HSV-2 virus, which causes genital herpes. The HSV 2 blood test is useful when it has never been given before. Antiviral medications such as acyclovir, famciclovir and valacyclovir can suppress outbreaks and shorten the duration of symptoms and active shedding of virus. CDC does not recommend herpes testing for people without symptoms in most situations. STD testing is generally performed on infections which have a serious outcome to the individual involved if the infection is not addressed. Although HSV 2 is the most common infection that causes genital herpes, the HSV 1 virus can also cause the same signs and symptoms. This is because the local risk factors for infection and behavioral habits will determine if a doctor feels this test is necessary. False negative results with blood test are also obtained if the test is carried out too early in the infection. The issue with HSV 2 is that it can spread even when safe sex measures are taken. The results will determine . The occurrence of blistering sores in the mouth or on the genitals Any pain during urination. Since genital herpes does not cause serious consequences or outcomes for non-pregnant individuals, the testing may not even be ordered. KS primarily affects people with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS and organ transplant recipients. Your health care provider can usually make a diagnosis of genital herpes based on a physical exam and a history of your sexual activity. This is why its important to talk openly and honestly with your provider during your visit. Available from: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute [Internet]. Genital Herpes: Symptoms and Causes; 2017 Oct 3 [cited 2018 Jun 13]; [about 3 screens]. Your HSV test results will be given as negative, also called normal, or positive, also called abnormal. Atlanta: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; Genital Herpes-CDC Fact Sheet; [updated 2017 Sep 1; cited 2018 Jun 13]; [about 3 screens]. STD testing is generally performed on infections which have a serious outcome to the individual involved if the infection is not addressed. Treatment is needed to prevent complications and transmission. If you do not have symptoms of HSV2, but have recently had unprotected sexual contact with a new partner, then speak with your medical provider about your sexual history. The fetus can also obtain the herpes virus and herpes infections in babies can be life-threatening. Women who are pregnant and have a sexual partner who has been diagnosed should be tested immediately. Your doctor will let you know whether you should test for herpes or another STI, and they can help you get treatment if needed. Upload your lab reports and get your interpretation today. You may still have an HSV infection if your results were normal. Read Also: How To Find Out If You Have Herpes, Recommended Reading: Does Planned Parenthood Do Blood Test For Herpes, The best way to prevent genital herpes or another STD is to not have sex. Upload your lab reports and get interpretations today! Our data entry forms are an easy, fast, and convenient way to enter the reports yourself. For example, some blood test like IgM doesnt differentiate between HSV-1 and HSV-2. At HealthMatters, we're committed to maintaining the security and confidentiality of your personal information. Also, false positive test results are possible. In rare cases, HSV can infect other parts of the body, such as the eyes and the brain. If the test comes back as negative, then this is a general indication that the herpes virus is not present. If the test comes back as negative, then this is a general indication that the herpes virus is not present. Most of the time HSV 1 presents itself as an active infection by the presence of cold sores or fever blisters around the mouth. HSV is a contagious condition that causes sores around the mouth or genitals. Some of the common symptoms are mentioned below. Herpes testing may be used a few different ways: The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention does not recommend screening for herpes in the general population, but it may be helpful in some cases, such as: We use cookies to enhance your visitor experience and our ability to customize content to fit our customers needs. You May Like: How To Clear Up Oral Herpes Fast. PCR and antibody testing may be used to distinguish between HSV-1 and HSV-2 infections. On an occasional visit to the US, i took a 10 test panel through LabCorp.Results came out as following: 1. How to Read Herpes Simplex Virus Test Report Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) Test: Herpes simplex virus test is done to detect or screen for the infection caused by herpes simplex virus (HSV). These will last for about 10-14 days in most individuals and created crusted sores in the corner of the mouth that can make it very painful to eat. It can be present on any skin that remains uncovered while having intercourse and then spread. Medication can curtail the severity of your symptoms, as well as the number of outbreaks you get. Herpes blood tests might be useful. An HSV test may be used to: Find out whether sores on the mouth or genitals are caused by HSV Diagnose an HSV infection in a pregnant woman Find out if a newborn is infected with HSV Why do I need an HSV test? When an individual contracts herpes, the immune system responds by developing antibodies to fight the virus: IgG and IgM. Herpes is a virus that creates a chronic, lifelong infection. Health Information: Herpes Tests: Test Overview; [updated 2017 Mar 20; cited 2018 Jun 13]; [about 2 screens]. A swab is taken from your genitals or wherever the lesion or sore occurs the most accurate way to test for herpes. avoid kissing others when the virus is active, avoid skin-to-skin contact during an active outbreak, avoid sharing towels, toothbrushes, and lipstick when they have sores around the mouth, wash their hands well after touching a sore. Please note that while a herpes blood test can help determine if you have herpes infection, it will not be able to tell you who gave you the infection. A pregnant woman who has been diagnosed with herpes may be monitored regularly prior to delivery to detect a reactivation of her infection. The HSV 2 blood test is used to determine if there is a type 2 genital herpes infection in specific situations: if someone has genital symptoms that could be related to herpes or if someone has had a sexual partner who has symptomatic herpes at the time. If you know that you have or had a sexual partner with genital herpes, this testing can tell if you also have the virus. Since genital herpes does not cause serious consequences or outcomes for non-pregnant individuals, the testing may not even be ordered. When the symptoms of genital herpes are present, this is generally referred to as a flare up or having an outbreak. They can appear as blisters that are on the rectum, genitals, or even the mouth. But dont assume that a free STI clinic will have the test or provide it free of charge. HSV 1 IgG, Type Spec Negative <0.91 NORMAL 2. People with newer infections are more likely to test positive for IgG and IgM or just IgM alone. It is not recommended as a general screening test for everyone. In some cases, HSV can also affect the eyes and can cause symptoms like eye pain, discharge, and a gritty feeling in the eye. Sometimes herpes can be spread even if there are no visible sores. Get extra 10% off with promo-code HEALTH10 Sale $6.60 /mo Save 56% $180 $79 billed annually Get started Herpes is a common viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). These cookies are required to move around a website and use its features, such as browsing as a registered visitor, or making a purchase. Because of this, it is important to avoid any false positive tests. Herpes Simplex Virus Infections; [cited 2018 Jun 13]; [about 2 screens]. If suppressive therapies are ordered, this will mean taking a drug every day that youll have to pay for. Testing for IgM antibodies is not a useful way to distinguish between primary and recurrent episodes of HSV infection. Antivral medications can help with discomfort and some people may benefit from taking a daily medication that suppresses the virus. This may be helpful in screening certain populations, such as potential organ transplant recipients. If no symptoms are being experienced, your doctor may wish to hold off on testing to avoid a false positive. A person can test positive for herpes infection when he/she has been in sexual contact with someone who has genital herpes infection. Your doctor may recommend an antibody test in addition to these other tests for an active infection. Our internal code of conduct adds additional privacy protection. Both HSV-1 and HSV-2 may be common infections today, but a majority of people who actually have this infection will not experience any symptoms. Even so, it is still possible to have 4-6 outbreaks every year. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Infectious Diseases Society of America, and the American Society for Microbiology all recommend the use of the IgG antibodies test over the IgM HSV test. When outbreaks occur when you are on these medications, theyre typically shorter and create fewer lesions than when you arent taking them. However, you may have a different virus that triggers a positive on this blood test. If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. Depending on an individual, the test result could take any time between a few weeks to a few months. - The blisters can appear around the mouth, in the vaginal area, on the penis, around the anus, or on the buttocks or thighs. Testing allows a healthcare provider to talk with patients about what to expect in the future. HSV stays in your system once you have been infected. This is why its important to talk openly and honestly with your provider during your visit. Herpes also attracts the cells that HIV likes to infect. If you want to reduce the severity and number of your outbreaks, your provider may prescribe a medicine that can help. Blood tests can be used when a person has no visible symptoms but has concerns about having herpes. It should also be noted that HSV can be very dangerous to infants during birth. If you have signs and symptoms, such as genital sores that may be related to herpes, If you have or had a sex partner with genital herpes. This service is excellent whether you have a lot of reports to upload or are too busy to do the data entry yourself. If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. These symptoms can be accompanied by other general symptoms like fever, swollen lymph nodes, headaches, tiredness and lack of appetite. You may be at higher risk if you: In rare cases, HSV can cause encephalitis or meningitis, life-threatening infections of the brain and spinal cord. HSV testing identifies the presence of the virus in a sample from a blister, sore or fluid to diagnose an active herpes infection or testing detects antibodies in the blood to determine previous exposure to herpes. Irving (TX): American Pregnancy Association; c2018. HSV PCR is the preferred test to diagnose newborns suspected of having neonatal herpes, a rare but serious condition in which herpes is contracted during vaginal birth. After the symptoms go away, the virus is contained and enters a dormant phase wherein it stops reproducing itself and spreading. Vertebrae are the small backbones that make up your spine. The herpes simplex virus is a type of virus that causes infections in humans. These symptoms can be accompanied by other general symptoms like fever, swollen lymph nodes, headaches, tiredness and lack of appetite. Genital herpes is a fairly common sexually transmitted disease, so if youre concerned about an infection of the HSV-1 or HSV2 virus, it is important to discuss your sexual history with your doctor to determine if this blood test is right for you. This is the best solution to determine if the HSV2 blood test is right for you. Genital herpes can be detected with a herpes blood test. HSV test requires no special preparation. If you believe you have been exposed to a specific STD, its important to learn about its incubation period so you know how long you should wait to get tested. Its usually found in body fluids and protects the cells against bacteria and other viral infections. If no symptoms are being experienced, your doctor may wish to hold off on testing to avoid a false positive. A test result showing IGg antibodies will tell a person that they have experienced an infection in the past and that they have antibodies against the virus. Available from: American Sexual Health Association [Internet]. A health care provider will clean your back and inject an anesthetic into your skin, so you won't feel pain during the procedure. The condition cannot be cured but it can be managed. Although oral and genital herpes can be uncomfortable, the viruses usually don't cause any major health problems. The herpes blood test can provide your medical provider with information about what can be expected in the future. Have a partner with HIV and/or another STD. The results for that test came back all negative. Tests for screening for other STDs, especially HIV testing, is recommended as HSV infection can increase the risk of being infected with other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). A positive herpes antibody test cannot tell people where they have HSV infection or when they contracted the infection. Read more stories on herpes facts and myths: Talk with a doctor if you notice any sores on or around your genitals. If your HSV2 blood test results come back as positive, then this is a general indication that the herpes virus is present. To prevent passing on cold sores and genital herpes to others, a person can: Having multiple sexual partners can increase the risk of. What do positive results of HSV test mean? In other words, if youve been exposed to oral herpes , results of the IgM test could lead you to believe youre positive for genital herpes, when in fact you simply have antibodies against HSV-1. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognizing you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful. If left untreated, herpes can cause long-term health problems in the baby and can be life-threatening. The doctor will check the physical symptoms of the infection and order for the test. Available from: UW Health [Internet]. It is caused by the herpes simplex virus type 2, which is how the blood test gets its name. The FDA has granted clearance for the theranos HSV-1 test. For women who are pregnant, this blood test is very important because the fetus can become infected with HSV-1 or HSV-2 if the mother is infected. You are currently having sex or have had a sexual partner in the past who you know had genital herpes. Please note that while a herpes blood test can help determine if you have herpes infection, it will not be able to tell you who gave you the infection. The chance of passing it on while pregnant is low but if it happens it can lead to disabilities and death. The tests are readily available, this makes it possible to have a more enhanced diagnosis and clinical management. While there is no cure for herpes, there are medicines that can help manage the condition. A positive test means you have been infected with HSV recently or at some point in the past. Common antiviral medications include acyclovir, famciclovir, and valacyclovir. CDC recommends herpes testing for people who have genital symptoms to confirm if they have it. You May Like: What To Do If Partner Has Herpes. Ask them which infections they are and are not testing you for and why. Once someone tests positive for this virus, then they will always test positive for herpes. Your provider will withdraw a small amount of cerebrospinal fluid for testing. For some STDs, the incubation period for testing can be as short as a week or two, and for other STDs, as long as a few months. Simply attach an image or a file of your lab test results, and one of our qualified data entry team members will add the results for you. How To Interpret Herpes Test Results Test September 8, 2022 Updated: September 8, 2022 By Steve S Why Is Testing Recommended Only In These Areas Discontinuation of Herpes Simplex virus (HSV) IgM Testing When a herpes outbreak occurs, the blistering and rawness that appears around the genitals, rectum, or mouth can be very painful. If you know that you have or had a sexual partner with genital herpes, this testing can tell if you also have the virus. Herpes is not considered a notifiable disease in the United States either, which means there is no specific data collected about this STD. Most of those with a chronic infection will test negative for EBNA antibodies, or they may have very low levels . Depending on where you live and the lab you use, your HSV IgG blood test can cost between $35 and $80. A mother and newborn may be tested for HSV soon after delivery when a baby shows signs of HSV infection, such as meningitis or skin lesions that could be caused by the herpes virus. Suppressive therapies and other medication may be ordered, but in some patients, careful watching and waiting may be the best solution. These blood tests tend to be more reliable. HSV-1 primarily causes blisters or "cold sores" around the mouth (non-genital sites). During periods of stress or illness, the virus may reactivate and you may have periodic outbreaks. We use cookies to enhance your visitor experience and our ability to customize content to fit our customers needs. You may need a test if you have certain risk factors for STDs. If you do have symptoms, your healthcare provider can test the sores for herpes directly with a swab test. Blood tests do not actually detect the virus instead, they look for antibodies in the blood. Available from: UW Health [Internet]. If suppressive therapies are ordered, this will mean taking a drug every day that youll have to pay for. The following conditions are some of the most common reasons for the test. HSV antibody testing may be used to determine whether you have been exposed to HSV in the past. This result can then help to reduce future transmissions to additional sexual partners. People can decrease this risk by openly discussing STI status and prevention with any partners and practicing safe sex. Recommended Reading: How Accurate Are Igg Herpes Tests, Dont Miss: Over Counter Medicine For Genital Herpes. But it is recommended for pregnant women who are at risk of having genital herpes. The most reliable way to manage or avoid infection is to abstain from oral, vaginal, or anal sex. Therefore, doctors do not recommend IgM testing. Our technology helps to understand, combine, track, organize, and act on your medical lab test results. Available from: Mayo Clinic [Internet]. Herpes cannot be cured, but it can be managed. For this reason, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention do not recommend testing everyone for this sexually transmitted disease. Herpes Fast Facts; [cited 2018 Jun 13]; [about 2 screens]. Minneapolis: Allina Health; Herpes viral culture of lesion; [cited 2018 Jun 13]; [about 3 screens]. Recommended Reading: When To Test For Herpes. All Rights Reserved. Herpes blood tests may or may not be part of the tests your healthcare provider gives you. Upon receiving herpes test results using IgG, you are likely to get a number value. It causes skin infection, genital sores, or encephalitis. A repeat test is recommended in 10-14 days in order to make certain whether or not that you have the virus. Although there can be a negative stigma associated with those who have an outbreak and the blistering sores may change sexual habits, a majority of those infected have no symptoms at all. To confirm a diagnosis, your provider will likely take a sample from an active sore. The information on healthmatters.io is NOT intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional and is not intended as medical advice. An HSV test looks for the presence of the virus in your body. Each STD has a unique incubation period. Madison (WI): University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority; c2018. Being in a long-term relationship with one partner who has tested negative for STDs, Using condoms correctly every time you have sex. Testing for serotypes is important because the necessary diagnosis will be adopted and also appropriate counselling may be provided to the patients to guide them. Many people who are infected with genital herpes do not know that they have it. Sometimes genital herpes is mistaken for other health conditions, such as a bacterial, bladder, or yeast infection. IgM tests are not recommended because of three serious problems: The accurate herpes blood tests detect IgG antibodies. Talk to your healthcare provider about your options. In some blood test, clarity is not seen when testing for HSV. If someone wants to know if they have genital herpes because of their sexual history, then the HSV 2 blood test can provide conclusive information about whether or not they have been infected. In some cases of infection, levels of IgM stay elevated for a period of 12 months after the infection.
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how to read hsv test results
