HSV-1+2 IgG Antibodies
HSV-1+2 IgG Antibodies
An infection called Herpes is caused by Herpes simplex virus (HSV). It is of two types:
1. HSV-1 – causes cold sores around the mouth or face region.
2. HSV-2 – affects the genitals, anal, and buttocks region.
It is transmitted through direct contact with the infected persons.
The HSV-1+2 IgG antibodies test help detect IgG antibodies specific to the herpes simplex virus. This test is performed to confirm any active or past infections in individuals by herpes simplex virus. These IgG antibodies are usually found 3 to 4 weeks after the initial infection by the virus
What is HSV-1+2 IgG antibody test used for?
The HSV-1+2 IgG antibody test is recommended in individuals when:
· Repeated symptoms are shown with a negative result but active herpes infection
· Risk exposure to herpes virus with no symptoms
· Expecting a child or attempting to conceive
· HIV positive or more likely to contract it
Symptoms of Herpes infection
In most of the cases, the herpes infection is asymptomatic, i.e., with no symptoms. However, if symptoms appear, they include
Open sores (ulcers) – a characteristic feature of herpes infection
Fever
Body aches
Sore throat (oral herpes)
Headache
Swollen lymph nodes
Who should get tested?
The HSV-1+2 IgG antibody test should be taken by individuals who are
Sexually active
Have more than one sexual partner
Have sex with partners affected with herpes or other STDs
Trying to conceive or pregnant
Test preparation
No special preparation is required to take the HSV-1+2 IgG antibody test.
Please talk to your healthcare provider if you are on any medications before taking the test
Interpretation of the Test Results
Normal range: 0.89 IV or less (intravenous immunoglobulins)
The test results for the herpes simplex virus-1+2 IgG antibody test are given as either positive or negative.
Positive test results – These indicate there were IgG antibodies detected in the individual’s blood and may mean one of the following two things:
1. Active or current infection
2. Past or resolved infection
Negative test results – It indicates there were no IgG antibodies found in the individual’s blood sample and it is likely that the individual is not infected by the herpes simplex virus.
FAQs
What is the turnaround time (TAT) for the HSV-1+2 IgG antibody test?
The test results for the HSV-1+2 IgG antibody test are generally available within 2 – 3 working days after the sample collection. However, it can also take a little longer at times
What is the procedure involved in collecting samples?
Your healthcare provider will draw a few millilitres of blood from a vein in your forearm. Your physician will either tie an elastic band around your upper arm or ask you to make a fist to collect the blood sample. This will aid in the accumulation of blood in the veins, making blood collection easier. Following that, he will inject a small needle into a vein in your arm, extract a few millilitres of blood, and then withdraw the needle
Are there any risks related to the HSV-1+2 IgG Antibody test?
No, there are no potential risks associated with the HSV-1+2 IgG antibody test. It is a simple blood test and may involve negligible risk such as feeling a slight sting or bruise at the site of needle insertion. It usually resolves within a few minutes to a couple of hours. Rarely, the site can become infected
What precautionary measures can one take if they are HSV-positive and asymptomatic?
Although an individual shows no symptoms, it is possible for them to pass the virus to others either during sexual intercourse or other close contact. One can consider the following precautions if they are HSV positive and asymptomatic:
· Let the other sexual partner know about you being HSV-positive before having sex.
· Do not ever go for oral, vaginal, or anal sex if the other person shows sores near these regions.
· Do not share your personal belongings with someone who is not infected, such as towels, toothbrushes, lipstick, etc.
· Do not share your utensils with others unless they are properly washed before use.
Always clean your hands well with soap or handwash after touching any of the infected area, or the sores
What are the other tests that could be advised along with HSV-1+2 IgG antibody test?
The other tests such as viral culture test, polymerase chain reaction test, virus antigen detection test, and antibody test, etc. could be advised along with the HSV-1+2 IgG antibody test to ensure the test results
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