Home›Herpes Simplex Virus 1, IgM

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, IgM

Also known as Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 IgM Antibody Test

₹659~~₹800~~ 17% Off

You need to provide

Blood

This test is for

Male, Female

Test Preparation

No special preparation is required.

Understanding Herpes Simplex Virus 1, IgM

What is Herpes Simplex Virus 1, IgM?

The Herpes Simplex Virus 1, IgM test helps in determining an active or recent Herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1) which is known to cause oral herpes. The test detects the presence of IgM antibodies that are produced in response to a recent HSV-1 exposure. Getting tested allows timely management and may also prevent further spread of the infection.

Herpes simplex virus (HSV), also known as herpes, is responsible for causing infections related to the skin. HSV-1 is one of the strains of HSV which is primarily associated with oral herpes, causing cold sores or blisters around the mouth and lips. It can spread through skin-to-skin contact such as kissing. However, it can also cause genital infections. The infection lasts a lifetime. Most HSV infections are asymptomatic (without symptoms) or unrecognized, but symptoms of herpes include painful blisters or ulcers that can recur over time. Herpes is not curable, however, it can be well managed with medications.

The Herpes Simplex Virus 1, IgM test looks for IgM antibodies that are specific to HSV-1. This means that the IgM antibodies can bind to and interact with HSV-1, indicating that the body has been recently exposed to the HSV-1 infection. Therefore, the presence of HSV-1 IgM antibodies typically signifies an active or recent infection, as these antibodies are produced shortly after the onset of symptoms and decline over time. HSV-1 IgM antibodies may also be found in individuals who have reactivation of a previous herpes infection.

Your doctor may recommend the Herpes Simplex Virus 1, IgM test when you are experiencing symptoms suggestive of oral herpes infection such as blisters that appear either individually or in clusters; they can be quite painful and may ooze; soreness, pain, and burning at the injection site; headaches; fever; body aches and pains. Also, the Herpes Simplex Virus 1, IgM test is used to confirm the presence of the virus during the early stages of infection or for individuals experiencing their first outbreak.

No special preparation is needed before undergoing the Herpes Simplex Virus 1, IgM test. Talk to your doctor about your specific test results and narrate your complete medical history and symptoms to help them correlate your clinical and laboratory findings.

What is Herpes Simplex Virus 1, IgM used for?

The Herpes Simplex Virus 1, IgM test is done:

To confirm the diagnosis of herpes simplex virus 1 infection in individuals with or without suggestive symptoms.
To find out if an individual is recently exposed to herpes infection.
To detect the infection in your sexual partner if you are already infected.
To identify a potential HSV infection in pregnant females without any relatable symptoms.
To estimate and analyze the frequency of your symptoms and future outbreaks.

What does Herpes Simplex Virus 1, IgM measure?

The Herpes Simplex Virus 1, IgM test detects the presence of IgM antibodies that are produced as a body's initial response to an HSV-1 infection. They are critical in the initial control of the virus. IgM antibodies may take up to 10 days to develop. Also, these antibodies are usually present in higher concentrations shortly after infection and eventually decrease after some time (7-10 days). Therefore, the presence of HSV-1 IgM antibodies is a strong indication of recent exposure and primary infection.

Early detection allows doctors to detect symptoms quickly and provide necessary medical interventions to individuals suffering from HSV infection, leading to better outcomes and improved quality of life.

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

Frequently Asked Questions about Herpes Simplex Virus 1, IgM

Q. Why is the Herpes Simplex Virus 1, IgM test ordered?

The Herpes Simplex Virus 1, IgM is usually ordered when an individual experiences signs and symptoms suggestive of herpes infection such as cold sores or genital sores. It is also performed when a person is at risk of the infection due to their lifestyle or certain medical conditions.

Q. Is there any risk associated with the Herpes Simplex Virus 1, IgM test?

The risks associated with the Herpes Simplex Virus 1, IgM test are minimal and may include slight pain or bruising at the site of the needle insertion. Rarely, a person may feel lightheaded or faint during the blood sample collection.

Q. How is the HSV-1 IgM test performed?

The HSV-1 IgM test is performed on a blood sample. A healthcare provider or phlebotomist will draw blood from a vein, usually from the inside of the elbow or the back of the hand. The blood is then sent to a lab, where it is analyzed for the presence of HSV-1 IgM antibodies.

Q. Can the HSV-1 IgM test differentiate between oral and genital herpes?

No, the HSV-1 IgM test cannot differentiate between oral and genital herpes. While HSV-1 is more commonly associated with oral herpes, it can also cause genital herpes. Therefore, a positive test result only indicates recent infection with HSV-1, not the location of the infection.

Q. What are the symptoms of oral herpes?

The common symptoms of oral herpes include initial redness, swelling, heat, and pain, or itching in the area where the infection will erupt, cold sores, painful and fluid-filled blisters around lips, mouth or tongue.

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. Are symptoms of herpes virus infection the same for everyone?

No, many people infected with HSV have no symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they vary with each person. Some people have painful outbreaks with many sores. Others have only mild symptoms that may go unnoticed.

Q. What are the potential complications of HSV-1 infection?

In some cases, HSV-1 can lead to complications like herpetic keratitis (an infection of the eye that can cause blindness), encephalitis, and increased risk for co-infection with other sexually transmitted infections, including HIV.

Q. How is herpes managed?

Herpes can be well managed with antiviral medications, especially during outbreaks. It is advised to take only prescribed medicines and do not self medicate.

+ more