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Hi Doc,

On the STDWEB.COM site a herpes test "Herpes 1&2 IgM and IgG Combo" is listed. I would to know the following

1. Whether the test is type specific i.e., will it show me results for Herpes1 and 2 separately(negative od rpositive) for recent and remote exposure?

2. What specime is involved (Blood or urine or culture)?

3. I was also affected by chicken pox in my early childhood,how will this affect the result. will it show some difference since chicken pox is also from the family of herpes?

Thanks for all the help.
 

Hi,
1. The IgM is not type specific. It tells you if you have antibodies triggered by the encounter to a mixture of  herpes virus proteins. The IgG is first a screen for the presence of antibodies to herpes and, If the IgG Screen is positive, your blood is tested one more time using the HerpeSelect type 2 Antigen. If positive again it indicates the presence of IgG for type 2 Herpes. If negative it indicates indirectly the presence of IgG to type 1 Herpes. If the IgG Screen is negative no antibodies either of type 1 or 2 are present.
If you desire separate responses we offer the HSV Immunoblot and Western Blot. In our local Lab we also perform an Elisa with separate HSV 1 and 2 results..
2.The specimen involved is a blood specimen.
3. In a tiny percentage of cases Varicella antibodies may cross react with the IgM antibodies screen and give a false, and usually low, titer response. This is not true for IgG. However IgM is still a good test for primary exposure to HSV.

In good health,

Dr. Gian

Dear Doctor
About three weeks ago, I developed a rash just below my waistline. It is red & developed into pimples. I had been trimming the hair down there as well. I had been working out a lot & sweating down there & often put back on shorts that had not been washed. Since then I have not worked out as much & have been trying to keep area as clean as possible. The outbreak is going down slowly> There has been no pain on the area. I had had protected sex with a partner about a month before this occured. Is this likely a normal rash or could it be a Herpes outbreak?
Thank You

Hi,

it could be a bacterial or viral infection. Observe and, in doubt, see a Doctor.

Be well.

Dr. Gian
 

I am interested in diagnostic testing for HSV. 4 days ago I developed a single vesicle approximately 3 mm on an erythematous base in total maybe 5 mm on my suprapubic area (not penis or scrotum) that ulcerated. It was not painful prior to ulceration It became painful. I took acyclovir as well as azithromycin with the thought it could be chancroid or HSV. After being on these meds for 2 days I sought medical care and had culture taken from the scan amount of fluid from the site. Because I've been on acyclovir I presume it might not grow anything.

Hi Sue,

It means that you have not yet developed antibodies for type 2. Retest later on, may be in four months. By the way, is not uncommon to get infected by a person who is not aware of having type 2 Herpes virus. So the guy may be telling the truth and still have the virus. May be you could ask him or he could volunteer to get tested.

Peace.

Dr. Gian

I get these outbreaks on my pelis, inner thighs, and anal area. They appear to be soft small bumps, that usually increase in size, and itch. What could they be?

Hi,
Think Herpes until proved otherwise. See your physician and get tested and treated.

Dr. Gian