Home›Herpes Simplex Virus 1 & 2, IgG

Content created by

Written by

BDS, MDS - Oral Pathology and Microbiology

Reviewed by

Dr. Ashish Ranjan

MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)

Want to know more?
Read our Editorial Policy

Herpes Simplex Virus 1 & 2, IgG

Also known as Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 & 2 IgG Antibody test

₹630~~₹700~~ 10% Off

You need to provide

Blood

This test is for

Male, Female

Test Preparation

No special preparation is required.

Understanding Herpes Simplex Virus 1 & 2, IgG

What is Herpes Simplex Virus 1 & 2, IgG?

The Herpes Simplex Virus 1 & 2, IgG test is performed to confirm if a person has been previously exposed to herpes simplex virus (HSV) 1 & 2 which causes herpes infection. It does so by detecting the presence of IgG antibodies (specific proteins) that are produced in response to a past or prolonged infection. Getting tested helps manage herpes infection and prevent it from spreading further.

Herpes simplex virus (HSV), known as herpes, causes infections related to the skin. Herpes is highly contagious and can be spread through sexual contact or skin-to-skin contact with an infected person. The infection lasts a lifetime, and it causes painful or itchy sores and blisters that come and go. While herpes is not curable, it can be well managed with medicines.

Herpes can be of two types based on the types of herpes simplex virus which are HSV-1 or HSV-2. HSV-1 is commonly known as oral herpes which usually causes cold sores and blisters on your mouth or the face. It can spread through contact with saliva such as kissing. On the other hand, HSV-2 can lead to genital herpes as it is usually transmitted through sexual contact. However, either type can infect any area of the body.

Most individuals with herpes have no symptoms or experience only mild symptoms. While many individuals do not know that they have herpes infection, they may unknowingly pass the virus on to others. Those who exhibit symptoms may experience painful, recurring blisters or ulcers, fever, body aches, sore throat, and swollen lymph nodes. Symptoms may also be different during the first episode (outbreak) of infection than during a recurrent episode.

Your doctor may recommend the Herpes Simplex Virus 1 & 2, IgG test when you are experiencing symptoms suggestive of herpes infection. This test checks for the presence of IgG antibodies against HSV-1 and HSV-2 that your body produces in response to the viral infection. Usually, no specific preparation is needed to get this test done. You can eat and drink normally before the test.

Talk to your doctor about your specific test results. Narrate your complete medical history and symptoms to help them correlate your clinical and laboratory findings and formulate your treatment plan. Negative results may not exclude an eventual infection, in case of equivocal results, a repeat test is recommended after 8-14 days.

What is Herpes Simplex Virus 1 & 2, IgG used for?

The Herpes Simplex Virus 1 & 2, IgG test is done:

To confirm the diagnosis of herpes simplex virus infection in individuals with suggestive symptoms.
To find out if a person has been previously exposed to herpes infection.
To diagnose patients with a history of genital sores without any symptoms.
To identify a potential HSV infection in pregnant females without any relatable symptoms.
To detect the infection in your sexual partner if you are already infected.
To estimate and analyze the frequency of your symptoms and future outbreaks.

What does Herpes Simplex Virus 1 & 2, IgG measure?

The Herpes Simplex Virus 1 & 2, IgG test determines the presence of IgG antibodies against HSV-1 and HSV-2 in response to the Herpes infection. Your body begins to make two relevant types of HSV-1 antibody or HSV-2 antibody around 18 to 21 days after you are exposed to the virus and remains in the body for life. The presence of IgG antibodies generally indicates past exposure and immunity against Herpes infection.

Interpreting Herpes Simplex Virus 1 & 2, IgG results

Interpretations

RESULT (INDEX)	REMARKS
< 0.8	Negative
0.8 - 1.2	Borderline
> 1.2	Positive

Negative results do not rule out the possibility of infection. Retesting is recommended after 8 - 14 days.

Reference range may vary from lab to lab*

Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Herpes Simplex Virus 1 & 2, IgG

Frequently Asked Questions about Herpes Simplex Virus 1 & 2, IgG

Q. Why is it important to get the Herpes Simplex Virus 1 & 2, IgG test?

The Herpes Simplex Virus 1 & 2, IgG test is important as it helps in diagnosing HSV infections and evaluating the immune status of individuals, especially those who are immunocompromised (have weak immunity) or pregnant.

Q. When should one get the Herpes Simplex Virus 1 & 2, IgG test?

The Herpes Simplex Virus 1 & 2, IgG test is recommended when an individual presents symptoms suggestive of an HSV infection, such as cold sores or genital sores, or when a person is at risk for the infection due to their lifestyle or medical conditions.

Q. Are HSV-1 and HSV-2 infections curable?

There is currently no cure for HSV-1 or HSV-2 infection. However, antiviral medications can be used to manage symptoms, reduce the frequency of outbreaks, and decrease the risk of transmission to others.

Q. How long does a herpes outbreak last?

Herpes outbreaks usually last for about one to two weeks, though the first outbreak after infection may last longer.

Q. What precautions can help in preventing HSV infections?

Practicing safe sex, avoiding close physical contact with infected individuals, and maintaining good personal hygiene can help prevent the spread of HSV.

Q. Can HSV-1 and HSV-2 coexist in an individual?

Yes, it's possible for an individual to be infected with both HSV-1 and HSV-2. In such cases, they will test positive for IgG antibodies to both viruses.

Q. Can asymptomatic individuals test positive for HSV IgG?

Yes, individuals who have been exposed to the virus but do not show any symptoms can also test positive for HSV IgG, indicating that they have been infected in the past.

Q. What other tests can be advised along with the Herpes Simplex Virus 1 & 2, IgG test?

The other tests that can be advised along with the Herpes Simplex Virus 1 & 2, IgG test include viral culture test, virus antigen detection test, antibody test, and polymerase chain reaction test.

+ more