Description
Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) is responsible for several clinically significant human viral diseases, with severity ranging from inapparent to fatal situation. Clinical manifestations include genital tract infections, neonatal herpes, meningoencephalitis, keratoconjunctivitis, and gingivostomatitis. There are two HSV serotypes that are closely related antigenically.HSV type 1 and type 2. HSV type 2 is more commonly associated with genital tract and neonatal infections, while HSV type 1 is more commonly associated with infections of non-genital sites. Specific typing is not usually required for diagnosis or treatment. The mean time to seroconversion using the type specific assay is 25 days. The performance of this assay has not been established for use in a pediatric population, for neonatal screening, or for testing of immunocompromised patients.
This test helps to detect exposure to Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) types 1 or 2, as well as differentiates between both types and assists in diagnosis and patient management.
Herpes type 1 is associated with an oral infection that causes cold sores or fever blisters around the mouth and lips.Oral herpes can also be transmitted during kissing and sharing drinks and utensils.
Herpes type 2 is associated with an infection in the genitals that results in sores around the rectum or genitals.It is recommended to wait at least 3 months after the last time of possible exposure to be tested. Otherwise, no special preparation is necessary prior to blood sample collection.HSV-1 and HSV-2 don’t always cause symptoms, and people may not know they have the infection.
The serum herpes simplex antibodies test doesn’t actually check for the HSV infection itself. However, it can determine whether someone has antibodies to the virus.Antibodies are special proteins that the body uses to defend itself against invading organisms such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi.This means that most people who have an HSV infection will have the corresponding antibodies.The test can detect antibodies for both types of HSV infections.Your doctor may order a serum herpes simplex antibodies test if they suspect you have an HSV infection.The results will determine whether you’ve contracted an HSV infection. If you have the antibodies to HSV, you’ll test positive even if you don’t currently show any symptoms.
The symptoms of HSV-1 are:
Small, fluid-filled blisters around the mouth
A tingling or burning sensation around the mouth or nose
A fever
A sore throat
Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
Herpes type 1 blood test is 97-99% accurate if tested between 4-6 weeks post exposure and will remain 99% accurate after 6 weeks.Mostly people develop detectable antibodies within the recommended window period after their potential exposure, but everyone reacts differently to a viral infection. It can take people between 2 weeks and 6 months after infection to develop enough antibodies to be detected. Retesting can ensure your results are as accurate as possible.
