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There are settings in which Herpes IgM's testing may have a positive, though limited, value.

Herpes IgM serology may be useful in newborns of culture positive mothers; to individuals, and their partners, presenting with a first episode of genital herpes, particularly those who are anxious to know more about the possible source of the infection; and to individuals concerned about viral shedding and reoccurrences.

As shown in a recent study "…people who present with a first clinical episode of genital herpes may be classified into three categories on the basis of history, clinical features, viral isolation, and serology."
                                                             

Categories:

1) True Primary Infection (IgM positive and/or viral culture positive and IgG negative at the time of symptoms presentation)
2) Non-primary first episode (IgG positive for one of the two viruses with IgM antibody to the other)
3) Previous Infection (both HSV-l and HSV-2 IgG positive and IgMs negative)

This classification is useful in defining the natural history of first episode genital herpes and in providing patients and their partners with helpful information about the source of the infection. Many individuals acquire genital herpes in the context of monogamous relationships and knowing whether the infection is new or pre-existing may be very reassuring or at least help to unravel what is sometimes seen as an illogical situation. Ongoing counseling and support for patients and partners will also be essential.

 J Pge, J Taylor, R L Tideman, C Seifert, C Marks, A Cunningham, and A Mindel - Sex. Transm. Inf., Aug 2003; 79: 276 - 279

 

IgM antibodies appear within a few days to a week from exposure, reach a peak level within 2-4 weeks and slowly become undetectable within 2-4 months from the date of exposure.  A reappearance of elevated IgM antibodies blood levels may occur every time the virus is reactivated form its latent state (flare ups) even when  symptoms are not present. 

The IgM Antibodies Screen is a non-type specific Herpes test and therefore does not distinguish between the two Herpes types and may show cross-reactivity with other types of  Herpes viruses like Mono and CMV, two common Herpes viruses. The turnaround time for this test is typically 4-6 business days.

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