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Is Positive HSV IgG Test Conclusive?

Posted on Tue, 8 Sep 2015

Question: I was diagnosed with hsv1 genitally, they did the swab test and it came back positive. I've now been hearing that the igg test might not be as accurate because I may have had hsv1 for most of my life. How can I be sure what's going on?

Answered by Dr. Indu Kumar (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Among the indirect tests,western blot test is most sensitive.

Detailed Answer:
Hello

You are rightly informed that HSV IgG may be positive due to past exposure. It is not a sensitive test for recent infection. Your doctor may order for an IgM test instead which indicates recent infection. Further there are other specific test - both direct and indirect one.
Among the indirect test, western blot test is most sensitive and it is considered as gold standard test.
Among the direct tests, direct visualization of virus and its culture can be done after clinical evaluation. PCR blood test can also be done.

Hope I have answered your question.
Further queries are most welcome.

Take Care
Dr.Indu XXXXXXX

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad

Follow up: Dr. Indu Kumar (11 hours later)

Which is the western blot test? I got the cotton swab one where they touch gather a sample from the sore.

Answered by Dr. Indu Kumar (11 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Western blot is a blood test and it detect antibodies.

Detailed Answer:
Hello

Western blot is a blood test and it detect antibodies.

When there is fresh ulcer/sore then swab test is preferred for virus culture.It is a direct test and it can very accurately confirm illness.Most likely you have underwent this test.It is best method for identifying an active genital herpes infection.

Get well soon.
Hope I have answered your question.
Further queries are most welcome.

Take Care
Dr.Indu XXXXXXX

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj

Follow up: Dr. Indu Kumar (6 hours later)

Ghsv1, why is there little to no information on it? And how do i find trials for hsv1 herpes? My initial outbreak was very mild and now i cant tell when im having one or if i have one at all. I dont ever get symptoms and there is never a rash

Answered by Dr. Indu Kumar (9 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Investigations like direct observation for virus will confirm your illness.

Detailed Answer:
Hello

Above mentioned investigations like direct observation for virus will confirm your illness.
Herpes simplex virus typically present as blisters around affected areas.

Get well soon.
Hope I have answered your question.
Further queries are most welcome.

Take Care
Dr.Indu XXXXXXX

Note: For more detailed guidance, please consult an Internal Medicine Specialist, with your latest reports. Click here..

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar