Herpes Simplex Virus 1 and 2 (IgG), with Reflex to HSV-2 Inhibition

This test screens for Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) types 1 & 2 by measuring the IgG antibodies that are usually produced within four to twelve weeks of infection and provides confirmatory testing on low positive HSV type 2 results. 

A viral infection produced by the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV), Herpes causes outbreaks of sores or blisters on different body parts. HSV type 1 typically causes fever blisters or cold sores around the mouth (oral herpes). However, HSV type 2 usually causes blisters and sores on the genitals (genital herpes). The Herpes infection is transmitted through direct skin-to-skin or sexual contact with these types of sores. HSV-2 is often spread through vaginal, oral, or anal sex. Herpes can be passed on even if there are no visible sores. Sometimes, Herpes is transmitted from a parent to a child during fetal development or childbirth. As a result, Herpes is one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases (STD). 

Many individuals infected with HSV do not experience symptoms until two to twenty days after the initial infection. The initial signs and symptoms of an HSV infection may include:

• Small sores on the skin
• Blisters around the mouth or lips and on the genitals
• Tingling, itching, or burning on the skin
• Fever, headache, or body aches
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Less commonly, encephalitis or meningitis, life-threatening brain, and spinal cord infections

Following the initial infection, HSV remains dormant inside the body. However, HSV can reactivate throughout an individual’s life, causing genital or oral herpes symptoms to reoccur. While the stimulus for an HSV outbreak is often unknown, potential triggers include fever, stress, physical trauma, and a compromised immune system.

Individuals may order this if they are experiencing HSV symptoms, have a sex partner diagnosed with herpes, HIV, or another STD, or for initial screening, confirmation, and continued monitoring. Contact your doctor or healthcare provider if you have significant concerns or questions about your recent lab results.