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Questions and answers about: testing for genital herpes

2015-02-22 15:04:02

Maria asks:

Hello. My tests showed genital herpes type 2, and my husband and I really want a child. What needs to be done so that it does not progress and I can carry a healthy child and give birth.

2012-12-19 17:03:42

Karina asks:

Hello, I was tested for genital herpes DNA herpes symplex 1/2 negative, IgG 4.5 reference values ​​less than 0.9 negative, 0.9-1.1 gray zone, more than 1.1 positive. At the moment, periodically in the evening the temperature rises to 37, lasts for three hours and returns to normal, the lower abdomen hurts, a stabbing pain in the anus, I went to the gynecologist, everything seems to be fine and the ultrasound also showed. My question is how to find out what kind of herpes, if the analysis shows 1/2 herpes and according to the tests at what stage it is asleep or not, is it worth treating, and maybe the temperature is related to it, there are no rashes, or should I look for the problem somewhere else? for example, can the intestines give subfibrillation? thank you

Answers Consultant at the medical laboratory "Sinevo Ukraine":

Good afternoon, Katerina.
If the PCR method did not detect HSV1/2 DNA in the blood, then the virus is dormant, does not cause harm, and does not require treatment.
Detection of IgG antibodies to HSV1/2 is only evidence that you, like most adults, are a lifelong carrier of HSV1/2. In itself, carriage of these viruses is not dangerous, does not cause harm, and does not require treatment. Treatment may only be required if they are activated.
To know which HSV you are infected with, you need to be tested to detect IgG cHSV1 and IgG antibodies to HSV2 separately.
If you do not have rashes, then your complaints are not related to it, and it was not detected by PCR. There can be many reasons for low-grade fever, because this is evidence of the presence of a focus of inflammation, and where – you need to look for it. In addition, judging by the complaints, you need to consult a proctologist.
Be healthy!

2011-01-09 22:41:22

Natalya asks:

Hello! About six months ago, my partner and I had oral sex, at that time I had a burning sensation on my lip and I began to lubricate this area with allomedine, but the next day the herpes appeared. I have had herpes on my lips since childhood, and on my partner it also manifests itself in the form of a rash on the lips. I read that it is possible to contract genital herpes. Currently, neither I nor my partner have or have had any manifestations of herpes on the genitals. Please tell me, is there a need for us to get tested for genital herpes? And what is the best way to get tested (in the case when neither I nor my partner have any manifestations of herpes)? Thanks for the answer.

2007-09-28 16:29:08

Nelya asks:

Hello! I am now 36 weeks pregnant. At the 15th week of pregnancy, tiny (less than 1 mm) bubbles appeared on the abdomen for the first time - 5-6 pieces (when trying to squeeze them out, a clear liquid appeared). After this first appearance, bubbles began to appear in small quantities under the arms and on the thighs. There were no painful sensations, only a little itching, and everything quickly passed in 2-4 days. At 33 weeks of pregnancy, blisters appeared in the groin area, in the sacrum area and in large numbers on the chest (under the nipples), and were accompanied by slight redness on the chest. The sensations are the same: it doesn’t hurt, but it itches a little. At the same time, there were no complaints about headaches or simply poor general condition or anything else, except for the appearance of these bubbles. Now, at 36 weeks, they have healed and disappeared (on the chest it took a long time to heal, 3 weeks, unlike previous rashes). Now there is no itching or other discomfort. A week ago, the gynecologist examined the vagina (just in case) and did not find any rashes (according to my feelings, there were none in the vagina at all). Since infections during pregnancy are dangerous, and I have a suspicion that it is genital herpes and I got tested. First analysis (at 21 weeks) using the PCR method: tested for herpes 1.2 and cytomegalovirus. All results were negative, i.e. They didn't find anything on me. After the rash appeared on my chest (at 33 weeks), I donated blood from a vein. Result: IgM – negative, IgG – 1:64 titer (>1:16 Past infection). Those. It turns out that they found “old” antibodies to genital herpes in me. But before pregnancy, I NEVER had such rashes or any complaints associated with it. I assume that the infection was either hidden, or I became infected during pregnancy, but then either PCR or a blood test would have shown the presence of infection (IgM would have been positive, for example). There are no complaints now (no new rashes, at least not yet); An ultrasound shows that the child is developing normally (structure, weight, heartbeat, condition of the placenta, etc.). I would like to know what to do now. The problem is that I’m not in Russia (I’m in Cyprus), and, unfortunately, there are no specialists here. My local gynecologist advises me to do another test at 38 weeks: blood for IgM, and if it is negative again, then there is nothing to worry about. But I asked my Russian gynecologist for advice (by phone). He said that at 37-38 weeks the test should be done only by PCR (because a blood test in this case will not give anything). In general, you can drink something to strengthen your immune system a couple of weeks before giving birth. Please tell me your opinion about my situation: 1. What test should I do for genital herpes: IgM? IgG? or PCR – what will really help determine the presence of infection? 2. When is it best to do it - how many weeks before giving birth? 3. What medications to take (which ones are simply strengthening ones and which ones in case the analysis shows the presence of an active infection) are harmless for the child 4. And one more thing: here the doctors almost immediately perform a caesarean section. But I read that in the case of genital herpes, it does not help and, especially, if there is no outbreak of the disease during childbirth, and the birth canal is without infection, then you can give birth naturally, only at the same time treat the birth canal and the baby’s skin with an antiseptic. Is it necessary to process? Is this harmful to the baby? And should a child be tested for genital herpes immediately after birth? By what method? What would you recommend? I really hope to get an answer from a specialist. Thank you.

Answers Markov Igor Semenovich:

Hello! The clinical picture of the disease described in the report does not correspond to the clinical picture of HSV infection during pregnancy. However, more accurate and complete information could be obtained by examining the contents of the vesicle using the PCR method, which makes it possible to detect HSV DNA. To detect the replicative activity of the herpes simplex virus (which you have - this is confirmed by the presence of IgG antibodies), you should do PCR of blood, vaginal secretions and scrapings of the epithelium from the cervical canal and urethra. This analysis must be done as soon as possible, so that if the answer is positive, there will be time for preventive treatment that will protect the fetus from infection. In this case, the analysis will need to be repeated weekly - until delivery (HSV monitoring). The only drug safe for the fetus and effective against infection caused by HSV is human anti-HSV immunoglobulin for intramuscular administration. If you start giving birth before preventive therapy, you will need to have a caesarean section (regardless of the location of the virus). If the tests done using the PCR method give a negative result, it will be possible to give birth naturally. Treatment of the genital tract with disinfectant solutions does not provide a 100% guarantee of protecting the child from infection directly during childbirth. I also don’t really recommend treating the skin of a newborn (during vaginal delivery). Only certain areas of the skin and mucous membranes are subject to treatment (umbilical wound, conjunctiva of the eye, skin and mucous membranes of the external genitalia in a girl, mucous membranes of the oral cavity). The child will also need to be examined soon after birth - umbilical cord blood will be tested for both types of HSV. The ELISA method is used to test for antibodies of the Ig M and Ig G classes, and the PCR method is used to test for viral DNA. Before giving birth (or immediately after) the level of IgG antibodies to HSV ½ in your blood should also be determined and the result should be compared with the level of antibodies in the baby. If the child is not infected, this indicator will be lower than that of the mother. Be healthy!

2016-06-16 17:13:23

Galina asks:

For 5 months I have been bothered by itching of the genital organs. It does not go away at all. They diagnosed vulvitis. First I had the disease tested for flora and cytology, everything was normal. Treatment was Trimestin ointment for 3 days and fluconazole, loratadine, aloe in injections, vitamins, gynoflor suppositories. Then they gave diagnosis of bacterial vaginosis. treatment of the suppository with quinofucin. Then later I took tests for the flora, it showed yeast fungus. Treatment with the suppository Livarol, Sporagal tablets, then biosporin, and Laferobion suppositories rectally. I took PCR tests for chlamydia, trichomonas, ureoplasma, mycoplasma, papillomovirus, and candida The results are negative. Then I again tested the flora; they showed a low presence of lactobacilli, key cells, mixed flora, normal leukocytes, no fungi. A bacterial culture for pathogenic microorganisms + a bacterial culture in which nothing was revealed. They treated bacterial vaginosis again: metrogyl, azicine, fluconazole, we eat, Lactiale, fluomizin suppositories after which I itched worse, changed to hexicon it itched even more. Now doctors diagnose genital herpes. There is a clear external picture no. There are no blisters and there never were. They don’t prescribe tests for herpes. They say that the picture is already blurry, and there is no point in testing. Is this true? Should I still get tested and what kind?

Answers Oganesyan Karine Eduardovna:

Hello, Galina! The guarantee of recovery is a correctly diagnosed and correctly prescribed treatment. The presence of gardnerella indicates the presence of other microorganisms. Gardnerella is a marker of sexually transmitted diseases, so careful examination is necessary. Recommendations for further examination: 1. Take tests on the last day of your period. 2. Be examined for infections using different methods. For Trichomonas - culture for Trichomonas, which is the "gold standard" for diagnosis. If your PCR test gives negative results, be examined using ELISA or PIF. 3. If no infections are detected, suggest that your sexual partner be examined. In this case, the material for examination is ejaculate (and a provocation must be done). If any infection is detected in him, you need to be treated for the same infection that was detected in your partner.

2016-05-23 20:18:37

Larisa asks:

Hello. Please tell me what to do. “Now, at 8-9 weeks of pregnancy, genital herpes appeared. It has not been there for the last 6 months. Before this, it appeared every month for three years in a row. I took tests on May 10th, and on May 20th herpes appeared. Doctors advised me to terminate the pregnancy.
IgG antibodies toxoplasma gondii 189, 6. IgG antibodies to the rubella virus. 96.1
IgG antibodies to cytomegalovirus (cmv)10.1
lgM antibodies to rubella virus (rub). 0.2.test results on the tenth of May...before the relapse
antibodies lgM Toxoplasma gondii (TOXO). 0.6
lgM antibodies to cytomegalovirus (cmv) 0.8
IgG antibodies to herpes virus 1\2(hsv 1\2 . 0.1
IgG antibodies to chlamydia trachomatiks 9.2
antibodies lgM k chlamydia trachomatiks 0.1

Answers Bosyak Yulia Vasilievna:

Hello, Larisa! The manifestation of genital herpes is not an indication for termination of pregnancy. Use a local remedy (acyclovir ointment) and monitor the development of the fetus over time.

2016-04-29 19:31:37

Valeria asks:

Good evening! My boyfriend looks like he has genital herpes. He was tested and found nothing. There is a rash of blisters on the penis. We did not have sexual contact with him. just kissed. Is it possible to get infected through a kiss? Best regards, Valeria.

Answers Oganesyan Karine Eduardovna:

Hello, Valeria! 90% of the world's population is infected with the herpes virus, but only 25% show it. It depends on the immunological state of the body. Infection with herpes occurs not only during a relapse, but also during the relapse-free period. Therefore, in any case, it is recommended to use a condom (although, according to new data, it protects against herpes infection by only 65%. Therefore, after sexual intercourse, it is necessary to use various protective agents, for example, chlorhexidine biluconate, Miramistin, Pharmatex suppositories, etc.

2016-04-21 18:40:13

Maria asks:

Hello. I really ask for your help. I’ve already seen 6 doctors and I don’t have the strength anymore. More than 3 months ago, unprotected vaginal intercourse occurred with a person unknown to me. The next day, in the evening, I fell ill with the flu. On day 5, I felt a tingling sensation on the mucous membrane, at the entrance to the vagina and in the projection of the pubis. As soon as I could, I went to the dermatovenous dispensary. Thrush was detected in the smear. She insisted on being referred for PCR tests. Since I was taking antibiotics for a cold, I went for tests only 2 weeks after finishing the course of antibiotics. Also disturbing is the constant liquid, colorless discharge, absolutely odorless. An analysis was made for: chlamydia, mycoplasma genitalium, mycoplasma hominis, ureoplasma species, gardnerella, trichomonas, gonorrhea and HPV 16.18. 6, 11. Culture - Escherichia coli was detected. Ureoplasma species was also discovered. Treatment was prescribed: Laferon suppositories - 10 days, Orgil - 5 days + azithromycin 3 days. Doxibene - 5 days. Neotrizol suppositories - 8 pcs., later Canestene tablets. The control analysis did not reveal ureaplasma. But! result 0. The inguinal lymph node on the right is aching, the discharge continues, a burning sensation is felt. Everything in the smear is within normal limits, except for elevated leukocytes - 30. Prescribes clotrimazole ointment. According to the urine results, the color is amber, density 1.03, leukocytes 5-10, erythrocytes - altered, squamous epithelium - in a small amount. Calcium oxalate - in moderate quantities. They prescribed Makmiror + Makmiror complex vaginal tablets. No effect. I changed my doctor. She said that I have papillomas on the mucous membrane and prescribed her regimen - injections of the immunomodulator Alfarekin 1 million - 10 days, the antibiotic Floxium, Ketodin suppositories and the drug Protfenolozide in the form of lotions on the mucous membrane. 2 weeks have passed. The effect is again zero. I have no desire to return to this doctor again and pay money for an appointment. I read about genital herpes, which can occur atypically. I took a PCR smear for herpes type 1.2. not detected. I donated IgG and IgM antibodies to herpes type 1.2. Not detected! I have been tested for HIV 3 times already. The last time was almost 4 months after PA. RW is also negative for syphilis. I contacted another dermatovenerologist. She looked, denied papillomas, said that visually there was nothing. I took a smear - only elevated leukocytes. Suggests contacting a psychiatrist. I myself am beginning to suspect mental deviations in myself after that unfortunate PA. BUT! There are some discharges. and burning and tingling sensations throughout the mucous membrane are present. Wh both in the urethra and in the anus. It feels like there are microcracks all over the mucous membrane. A few days ago I felt pain in the root of my tongue. There is a white coating and red hard round dots. After rinsing with soda it became easier. I turned to another private venereologist. He crossed out all my tests and invites me to retake all the tests with him personally! For a fabulous sum. including antibodies for herpes, which was tested in an independent laboratory a week ago. I don't see the point! Regarding the tongue, he said it could be from long-term use of antibiotics. In general, I apologize for the long story. But I’m just desperate and don’t know where to run. The entire salary is spent on tests and ineffective treatment. I have already “paid” in full for my mistake..

Answers Wild Nadezhda Ivanovna:

Make an appointment with your local gynecologist at the antenatal clinic. And if you want at least some result in treatment, stick to one doctor. There is a large amount of treatment, but there is no probiotic intake: Probiz Femina or Acidolac or Lactiale. There may be hormonal imbalances, age is not indicated. With such a change of doctors and such an attitude towards sex life, a psychologist is needed.

2016-01-15 00:39:04

Elena asks:

I would like to add to my question, the fact of the matter is that the doctor determined the presence of herpes “by eye” without any tests.
January 11, 2016
Elena asks:
Hello! I got pimples on my labia, on the outside, there was no itching, pain or ulcers. I went to the doctor and they said it was genital herpes. The doctor prescribed 10 days of smearing with fucorcin, and then 1:1 with herpevir and baneocin and drinking acyclovir. Over time, the acne began to go away, but about a month passed and new ones began to appear. There is also no pain or itching. Tell me what it could be and what to do about it? Thank you in advance.

January 14, 2016
Bosyak Yulia Vasilievna answers:
Gynecologist, reproductive specialist
information about the consultant
Hello, Elena! Have you been specifically examined for genital herpes? Those. During the period of rashes, did they take the contents of your “pimple” for PCR diagnostics? If genital herpes is confirmed by analysis, then with a course of treatment you can achieve more or less stable remission. A complete cure is impossible to achieve. An exacerbation of genital herpes can occur before or after menstruation. Treatment should be comprehensive and include antiherpetic agents (external and for oral administration), as well as to boost immunity, etc.

A test for genital herpes is carried out to identify pathological virus cells in the human body. Laboratory test results help not only to make the correct diagnosis and prescribe appropriate treatment. Having information about the presence of this disease, you can prevent a recurrence of the disease, and also avoid infecting your sexual partner and people around you (herpes can be transmitted through household contact).

Indications for testing

Herpes is a highly contagious disease that affects both women and men equally. Testing for the presence of the virus in the body may be recommended based on the following reasons:

• the presence of a rash on the skin and mucous membranes of the genital organs;
• pregnancy;
• close contact with an infected person (read more);
• venereal diseases;
• preparation before surgery;
• herpetic rash on other parts of the body.

The test is not carried out if a woman was diagnosed with a virus during pregnancy, or if the child developed symptoms of the pathology.

What tests are taken for genital herpes?

When the disease is in the acute phase, an experienced specialist can make a diagnosis after a visual examination of the patient, but laboratory testing is mandatory.

Since some diseases have similar symptoms to genital herpes, tests can confirm or refute the doctor’s assumptions.

There are the following types of herpesvirus diagnostics:

• Linked immunosorbent assay. In the process of laboratory testing, IgM and IgG antibodies are detected, and their titer is determined. A blood test allows not only to confirm or refute the presence of the virus in the body, but also to establish the phase of the disease (more details).
• Polymerase chain reaction. It is possible to identify pathological cells of a herpes infection even before the first symptoms of the disease appear. The test is recommended for patients who have been in close contact with the patient. The method involves repeated copying of micromolecules of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) of the virus, which makes it possible to determine its type. Diagnostics can be carried out using any biological material from the patient.
• Immunofluorescence reaction. The research method is effective only when there is a large amount of virus in the blood. The laboratory sample is treated with a special reagent, which, upon contact with the antigen, causes it to glow (visible under a microscope).
• Serological tests. Venous blood is required for the study. With its help, you can identify hidden forms of genital herpes.
• Culture method. The patient's biological material is placed on a nutrient medium. Pathological cells take over healthy ones. The type of infectious agent is determined by the nature of the changes that occur in the structural and morphofunctional units of the body.
• Dot hybridization. The principle of the method is based on identifying the DNA of the infectious agent. The study allows you to determine whether the body is infected even before symptoms of the disease appear.
• A smear for herpes in women is taken from the walls of the vagina, cervical canal and cervix.

Diagnosis of genital herpes is based on detection of the virus in smears from the affected area of ​​the mucosa.

Thorough testing is important to identify genital herpes. It is very unpleasant to hear from a doctor that you are infected when you are not, or vice versa. Some people have lived for decades with the false belief that they had herpes because a doctor did not swab them in time to detect the virus. Instead, they self-diagnosed themselves based on their symptoms. The symptoms of genital herpes are easy to confuse with something else.

If you have sores on your genitals, your doctor may take swabs from them to check for the presence of herpes simplex virus (HSV). One of the research methods is virus isolation in cell culture. All viruses from the sample are allowed to divide unhindered, which makes them clearly visible under a microscope.

The next type of testing is the immunofluorescence reaction. A solution containing anti-HSV antibodies and a fluorescent dye is added to the sample. Antibodies are proteins produced by the immune system in response to infection. If the virus is present in the scraping, antibodies adhere to it, which glow when viewed through a special microscope.

These tests are good because they can differentiate between the two types of HSV. It is important to know what type of virus you are infected with. If you are diagnosed with herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2), outbreaks may occur more often than if you are diagnosed with herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). Moreover, knowledge of the type of virus can be a clue in the process of determining the method of infection. HSV-1 often affects the genitals during oral sex, while HSV-2 is usually transmitted through vaginal or anal sex.

These tests may show a false negative result if your herpetic sores have already begun to heal, or if you are not experiencing symptoms for the first time. However, a positive result obtained from one of these tests is highly accurate.

Blood tests for genital herpes

A blood test can detect antibodies to HSV even in the absence of any symptoms. A false negative blood test result is possible if the infection occurred recently. From the moment of infection until antibodies to HSV appear in the blood, several weeks pass.

False positive results are also possible. If you test positive but your chances of contracting herpes were very low, you may need to be retested.

Tzanck test and PCR method

Other ways to detect the herpes virus include Tzanck cell testing and the PCR method. The Tzanck test involves identifying Tzanck cells under a microscope in impression smears of erosions and blisters after staining. Cells affected by HSV differ from healthy cells. This test is not very accurate, so doctors do not recommend it.

The PCR (polymerase chain reaction) method is based on the detection of a small fragment of viral DNA. This is a fairly accurate test, but doctors have not yet decided how it should be used to diagnose genital herpes, so this testing is also not preferred.

Genital herpes is an infectious disease of the genital organs of men and women. To clarify the diagnosis reliably, it is necessary to consult a venereologist.

The doctor will give you a referral for tests, after which you can accurately determine whether you have this disease.

What is genital herpes

Refers to STDs - sexually transmitted diseases. The main external sign is small blisters filled with whitish liquid. They are painful and leave ulcers after rupture. Blisters are usually located in the groin, buttocks and thighs. But in some cases they can be on the eyelids, in the corners of the mouth and on the face.

A fifth of the world's population from 14 to 50 years old are carriers of herpes simplex, the second type, which is caused by the appearance of the genital variant.

Infection occurs not only through sexual contact, but also through direct contact with an infected person. Sexual contact is not necessary. Herpes can be infected through the mouth, wounds on the mucous membrane, contact with liquid from blisters on the skin, etc. A pregnant woman can pass the virus to her baby.

Expert opinion

At first, herpes manifests itself in the form of an active surge, and then goes into a dormant phase until the next activation. Even in the passive stage, herpes is contagious.

The first active phase of herpes is similar to the flu. A sharp increase in temperature, body aches, swollen eyes, blisters. The duration of the stage is 14-42 days.

A relapse—a second surge—is less severe and does not last as long. Blisters may also occur in the groin or face. Their appearance causes itching and pain, and ulcers appear in the places where the blisters burst. Patients complain of burning, tingling and itching in the affected areas.

Herpes analysis: basic methods

If you notice the first symptoms of herpes, you should immediately consult a doctor. At the consultation, you will be given directions for analysis to make an accurate diagnosis.

What materials are needed for analysis? If there are blisters, the doctor will take a sample of the fluid from them. If the virus is in the dormant phase, a blood test and a smear for examination are necessary.

In general, the following methods are used for diagnosis:

• cultural – growing the virus on biological objects;
• cytological - study of changes in cells caused by the virus;
• immunofluorescence – determination of the presence of antibodies using fluorescent markers;
• NNA – nucleic acid amplification – PCR;
• serological – detection of antibodies based on a blood test;
• glycoprotein immunodot G-specific HSV testing.

Smear test for herpes

The most popular way to detect in biological material is to isolate it in cell culture and create conditions for its growth by division. After which the virus will be visible under a microscope.

Another method is fluorescence. A solution with antibodies to herpes and a dye are added to the collected material. Antibodies attach to the virus cells and, thanks to the dye, are visible under a special microscope.

These methods allow you to distinguish one type of herpes from another. As a result, appropriate treatment will be prescribed. But there is also a risk of getting a false negative result. At the stage when skin ulcers caused by blisters begin to heal, it becomes difficult to detect using a smear.

Another option to find out reliable information about the herpes virus disease is PCR - polymerase chain reaction. The virus is detected as a fragment of its DNA. The result is quite accurate, but there is debate about the practical application of this analysis.

The smear can be examined in other ways. For example, by doing a Tzanck test. It consists of comparing Tzanck cells in fluid prints with erosions or blisters. They are stained and differences from other, healthy cells are revealed. But the accuracy of the study is not too high, so the method is rarely used.

Linked immunosorbent assay

Enzyme immunoassay is preferred for making an accurate diagnosis. ELISA allows you to accurately determine the presence of the herpes virus at any of its stages. This analysis is performed on the basis of a patient's blood sample.

The degree of development of the disease is determined by quantitative and qualitative characteristics. The fact is that at each stage of herpes, antibodies to it are released in the blood. But they are different - IgM and IgG - at different stages of the disease. By the number of antibodies, you can understand how high the body’s antiviral immunity is. IgA antibodies appear 14 or more days after infection. All antibodies to herpes gradually disappear from the blood, except IgG, which remains in the body for life.

Decoding the analysis results

How to decipher the meaning of ELISA results?
There are three options:

1. There are no IgM antibodies, IgG is below normal. The patient is not infected with the herpes virus.
2. IgM is absent, IgG is higher than normal. The body was infected, but in what form the virus is now unknown.
3. IgM is detected or higher than normal, IgG is high, if during the analysis of the second or first type there are high titers of antibodies, then there is an initial infection or a recent exacerbation of the herpes disease.

Have you ever been tested for herpes?

YesNo

How to prepare for a herpes test

If we are talking about ELISA analysis, which is the most common, then you should remember about taking blood from a vein.
Taking a venous blood test requires standard preparation:

1. Abstinence from food for 8 hours, that is, the analysis is done on an empty stomach;
2. The last day before the analysis, fatty foods, smoked foods, and alcohol are prohibited. You should not be examined after severe stress and heavy workload. Three days before the analysis, it is necessary to exclude any medications, and not to treat inflammation sites with antiseptics 24 hours before the test.

REMEMBER! Different laboratories use different scoring systems and scales. Therefore, to understand the correct dynamics of the development of the disease, tests should be taken in the same place.

One of the diagnostic methods is a blood test for genital herpes. Antibodies are detected in it. They appear in the blood quite quickly.

The IgM titer increases within 4-6 days after infection.

This indicator reaches its maximum value 2-3 weeks after transmission of the infection.

IgG begins to be detected in the blood after an average of 2 weeks. A little later, IgA is synthesized.

After approximately 2 months, IgM and IgA cease to be detected in the blood.

IgG persists throughout life. Against the background of a relapse, the concentration of this immunoglobulin increases sharply, which makes it possible to confirm the fact of exacerbation of infection in the laboratory.

In case of exacerbation, IgM may also appear in the blood. With primary infection with herpes virus type 2

A blood test for type 2 herpes during primary infection suggests:

• single determination of IgM titer;
• or double detection of IgG.

If an IgG test is performed, the patient donates blood 2 times at an interval of 10-12 days.

IgM test for herpes type 2

Testing for genital herpes with determination of the IgM level in the blood is most often required during the initial episode of infection. The choice of the study was due to the short period of time when the test for herpes type 2 is positive during infection.

The analysis can be taken within 1-2 weeks. To diagnose an exacerbation of herpes, a blood test for IgM is not used. This is due to the fact that the titer of this type of immunoglobulin increases during only 20% of patients.

Ig analysisG

To diagnose relapse, a blood test for IgG antibodies is performed.

The result is interpreted based on the titer of immunoglobulins. It increases during exacerbation and decreases during remission.

Interpretation of the test for herpes type 2:

• a positivity rate of 0.8 or less is normal;
• CP from 0.9 to 1.1 – the result is doubtful;
• KP 1.2 and more – the result is positive.

Possible reasons for a positive result:

• a person suffers from chronic herpes;
• possible infection of the fetus.

Repeated testing is required to confirm the diagnosis. If the titer increases by more than a third, this indicates an active infection.

Interpretation of a negative result:

• remission of herpes;
• no infection;
• recent infection;

• intrauterine infection is excluded.

A questionable result may indicate the initial stage of the disease. It requires re-diagnosis after 2 weeks.

When is the test for herpes type 2 negative after treatment?

The disease is not cured forever.

The virus constantly persists in the human body. Accordingly, the results of the test for class G immunoglobulins can always remain positive. Although during periods outside of exacerbations the titer is small. It decreases within 2-3 weeks.

As a rule, tests are not performed afterwards to confirm that the patient has been cured.

The criterion for the success of the therapy is the resolution of the clinical manifestations of the disease and a decrease in the number of relapses.

Blood PCR for herpes type 2

Another method for diagnosing herpes in a blood test is PCR. The technique involves detecting the DNA of the pathogen.

Indications for the study:

• signs of intrauterine infection;
• preparation for pregnancy;
• immunodeficiency conditions or HIV;
• differential diagnosis of sexually transmitted infections.

A high-quality diagnosis is usually carried out. The doctor receives a positive or negative result. Quantitative research is required only in severe pathologies with damage to the central nervous system to determine the prognosis of the disease.

PCR smear for herpes type 2

Smears or scrapings are the main way to obtain clinical material for diagnosing herpes. A scraping of the rash is often taken for PCR.

Herpes type 2 is determined in the contents of vesicles - small bubbles with liquid that appear mainly on the genitals.

A positive PCR for herpes type 2 on the lips, genitals, saliva, urine or oropharyngeal swab indicates that the person is infected.

Before being tested for genital herpes from the urogenital tract, preparation is required:

• You can’t have sex for 2 days;
• the analysis is taken before the start of treatment;
• You should not urinate for 2 hours before taking a smear.

Women are tested no earlier than 5 days after using any vaginal medications (spermicides, antiseptics, etc.). After performing a transvaginal ultrasound or colposcopy, you need to wait 2 days before collecting clinical material.

Genital herpes – what tests are done and where?

You can donate blood for antibodies or diagnose herpes using the PCR method from a competent venereologist. The results will be ready the next day. We use painless methods for collecting clinical material. Venereologists work in private clinics, so after diagnosis you can get professional advice.

If the test result is positive, the doctor will select a treatment that will not only quickly get rid of the symptoms of herpes, but also prevent its complications.