HSV-2 IgG Antibody
HSV-2 IgG Antibody
HSV-2 IgG Antibody test helps to detect Herpes Simplex Virus 2 (HSV-2) IgG antibodies in the blood. Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted disease that is caused due to HSV-2. To combat the virus, the immune system produces antibodies. This test is used to identify IgG antibodies, which are present in the blood from day 21 to more than 41 days, following a herpes simplex virus infection.
HSV-2 IgG Antibody test is used to determine whether a patient has previously been exposed to the virus and this test is not used to identify an early or current infection. Thus, getting your HSV-2 IgG Antibody test done is recommended for detecting a previous HSV-2 infection
Symptoms of herpes simplex virus infection
Pain or itching around the genitals
Small bumps around the genitals, anus or mouth
Painful urination
Discharge from the urethra
Discharge from the vagina
Body aches
Fever
Who should get tested?
Herpes simplex virus infection risk factors include
Having sex with someone infected with the virus
Oral, anal, or vaginal sex without the use of barrier protection (condom, dental dam)
Multiple sexual partners
Presence or history of another sexually transmitted or blood-borne infection
Test preparation
No special preparation is required for HSV-2 IgG Antibody test
Interpretation of the Test Results
Herpes simplex virus (HSV) 2 IgG antibodies are detected using an enzyme immunoassay
|
Result in index |
Remarks |
|
<0.90 |
Non Reactive |
|
0.90-1.10 |
Equivocal |
|
>1.10 Reactive |
Reactive |
Interpretation of the results:
· A non reactive (normal) test result means that HSV-2 IgG antibodies were not detected in the blood sample.
· An equivocal test result would require re-testing to rule out the presence of genital herpes infection.
A reactive (positive) test result means that HSV-2 IgG antibodies were detected in the blood sample and it is most likely caused due to a previous genital herpes infection
FAQs
How is the sample collected for HSV-2 IgG Antibody test?
A blood sample is taken from a vein in the arm using a fine needle. This procedure typically takes no longer than five minutes
What are the risks involved in HSV-2 IgG Antibody test?
This test involves negligible risk. There might be slight pain or tenderness around the site where the needle went in. Rarely, the site can become infected
What is the turnaround time (TAT) for the result of HSV-2 IgG Antibody test?
HSV-2 IgG Antibody test result is usually available within 36 hours after the sample collection. However, it could take longer at times
What is the difference between HSV-1 and HSV-2 infection?
HSV-1 is spread through kissing and oral sex whereas HSV-2 is spread via vaginal, anal, and oral sex. HSV-1 causes blisters and cold sores around the mouth while HSV-2 causes blisters and cold sores around the genital area. Additionally, HSV-2 carriers frequently exhibit no symptoms or mild symptoms.
What is the limitation of HSV antibody test?
Compared to cultivating a sample from an active herpes outbreak, results of an antibody test for HSV are not always reliable. A positive antibody test result can indicate an ongoing infection or it could mean that you have previously been exposed to the virus
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