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STDs & Women’s Health
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Herpes Simplex Virus – Type 1 and Type 2 (HSV-1 & HSV-2)
What the test is for:
The HSV-1 and HSV-2 test serve to identify the presence of Herpes Simplex Viruses in the body. This diagnostic tool is crucial for distinguishing between oral herpes (HSV-1) and genital herpes (HSV-2), guiding appropriate medical interventions and managing the respective conditions effectively.
Virus details:
HSV-1 commonly causes oral herpes, characterized by cold sores and fever blisters. On the other hand, HSV-2 is associated with genital herpes, leading to painful sores in the genital and anal areas. Both viruses are highly contagious and can be transmitted through various forms of intimate contact.
What it detects:
The test identifies specific antibodies produced by the immune system in response to HSV-1 or HSV-2 infection. This detection provides valuable information about the individual’s herpes status, indicating either a current or past infection. This insight is essential for comprehensive medical care and informed decision-making regarding treatment options and preventive measures.
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STDs Women's Health
Respiratory
Frequently Asked Questions
Common tests include polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests to detect viral DNA, viral culture tests to grow the virus in a laboratory setting, and antibody tests (such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay or ELISA) to detect antibodies produced by the immune system in response to the virus.
Because every type of antibody is unique to a specific antigen, herpes simplex antibody testing can determine if you are infected with HSV-1 or HSV-2. HSV antibodies can be detected in a blood sample or a sample taken from your sore.
Serum herpes simplex antibodies is a blood test that looks for antibodies to the herpes simplex virus (HSV), including HSV-1 and HSV-2. HSV-1 most often causes cold sores (oral herpes). HSV-2 most often causes genital herpes.
During a herpes blood test, a needle is inserted into a vein and blood is collected in an air-tight vial or a syringe. The sample is taken to the laboratory and evaluated for the presence and quantity of antibodies.
What infections are the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV-1 & HSV-2) tests intended to aid in the diagnosis?
Herpes Simplex Virus – Type 1 And Type 2 (HSV-1 & HSV-2) tests are intended to diagnose infections caused by these two types of herpes simplex viruses:
HSV-1 (Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1): Causes oral herpes (cold sores) and, rarely, genital herpes through oral-genital contact.
HSV-2 (Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2): Primarily causes genital herpes, but can also infect the oral area through oral-genital contact.
These tests detect the viruses or antibodies in bodily fluids, aiding in accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.