HSV 1, IgG & IgM
Understanding HSV 1, IgG & IgM
What is HSV 1, IgG & IgM?
The HSV 1, IgG & IgM test is a blood test done to detect the presence of immunoglobulin M (IgM) and immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies against herpes simplex virus (HSV) type 1, known to cause oral herpes. This test helps determine the stage of the infection, differentiate between recent (acute) and past (chronic) infections, and aid in the timely management of the infection.
Herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection (herpes) is a skin infection that may spread through skin-to-skin contact with an infected person. HSV-1 usually causes oral herpes infection, which is characterized by painful blisters or sores around the lips and mouth.
The HSV 1, IgG & IgM test measures two types of antibodies: Immunoglobulin G (IgG) and Immunoglobulin M (IgM) produced as an immune response against HSV-1. IgM antibodies suggest a recent or acute infection, as they are produced early in the immune response and usually decline after a few months. IgG antibodies indicate past or chronic infection with the virus, as they typically develop after the initial infection and persist for life.
This test is often recommended when an individual exhibits symptoms suggestive of oral herpes, such as painful and recurring blisters (ulcers) on the lips and around the mouth, fever, body aches, sore throat, and swollen lymph nodes, etc. It also helps distinguish between recent (acute) and past (chronic) herpes infections.
No special preparation is required for this test. Eat and drink as per your normal routine. Inform your doctor about all the medication or supplements that you may be taking as few of them may affect your test results, potentially requiring adjustments or temporary discontinuation before the test.
Lab test results may vary across laboratories. Don’t self-medicate at home solely based on these results and always consult a doctor for proper understanding of the test results. The insights from this test will help your doctor formulate your overall treatment plan based on your specific health needs.formulate your treatment plan.
What is HSV 1, IgG & IgM used for?
The HSV 1, IgG & IgM test is done:
- To confirm the diagnosis of herpes simplex virus (HSV) 1 infection in individuals with suggestive symptoms.
- To find out if an individual has recently or previously (in the past) been exposed to herpes infection.
- For individuals experiencing symptoms of herpes, such as painful, recurring blisters or ulcers around lips and mouth, fever, body aches, sore throat, and swollen lymph nodes, etc., or those who have been exposed to the virus and wish to know their infection status.
What does HSV 1, IgG & IgM measure?
Contains 2 testsThe HSV 1, IgG & IgM test is a blood test used to measure two types of antibodies: Immunoglobulin G (IgG) and Immunoglobulin M (IgM) against herpes simplex virus (HSV) type 1. IgG antibodies indicate a past infection or long-term presence of the virus, while IgM antibodies suggest a recent or acute infection. By identifying these antibodies, this test helps determine if an individual has been exposed to the virus and distinguishes between new and existing infections.
Getting tested helps in the diagnosis and management of herpes infections. Early and precise identification of HSV infections allows timely medical intervention, reducing symptoms and preventing complications.
Herpes Simplex Virus 1 IgG
The Herpes Simplex Virus 1 IgG test determines the presence of IgG antibodies against HSV-1 in response to the Herpes infection. The body begins to make IgG antibodies around 18 to 21 days after the exposure of the virus and remains in the body for life. The presence of IgG antibodies generally indicates past exposure and immunity against herpes infection. Getting tested helps manage herpes infection and prevent it from spreading further as the HSV-1 remains dormant in the body after the initial infection and can reactivate at various times, leading to recurrent outbreaks.
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Herpes Simplex Virus 1, IgM
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.
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Interpreting HSV 1, IgG & IgM results
Interpretations
Positive test result for IgM indicates an active infection or a very recent infection. A positive result for IgG indicates a previous infection.