conflicting results

[whatever44]

I tested positive for HSV1 by culture several years ago; no pain, just saw a sore and got it checked out. I thought i was having another outbreak about 4 years after the fact but this time I had very intense, diffuse tingling and burning which has lasted to this day - about one and a half years. Thought maybe vulvodynia caused by the HSV1? Thought maybe it wasn't Type 1?

My concerns - positive culture followed by several negative blood tests and two equivical. I had the type specific testing, most recent after over a year of possible exposure.

If the culture cant be wrong then I am not making antibodies. If I am not showing antibodies for Type 1 then how do I know that I also did not contract Type 2 and am not making antibodies? I was in a relationship and after  being together for a long time did not use condoms so the possibility is there. Ever doctor, blogger etc all have so many different opinions - this has just consumed me and I cant move on.

I am in daily discomfort or pain from the burning.....

Thanks

P.S. Was gonna do the Western Blot but if the other tests are all coming back will this be different? If the WB doesnt show that I have Type1 then what should I think?

UGH!!!!

[whatever44]

They wont do it - I asked. I have a cancer history and no one is going to give me any hormones.

[gracefromHHP]

no need for a herpes WB. herpes isn't the biggest issue for you here and you already know what you have and where.

I recommend seeking out a vulvodynia specialist if there is one in your area.

sometimes topical estrogen is helpful for symptoms like this. talk to your gyn about giving it a try a few times a week for a few months to see if that helps too.

[whatever44]

Guess I was just hoping the swab could be wrong. Its odd that all the blood tests (5 or so) were negative or equivical.

I had a yeast and a bacterial infection during the past months then went back for a recheck and was told I was clear.

No one can tell me why I have the burning and discomfort and I have been to several doctors. Why a biopsy? Dermatologist thought I was crazy when I suggested one - said theres nothing to biopsy.

I diagnosed myself with vulvodynia.

So I assume you dont think I have to do the Western Blot?

Thank you for your response

[gracefromHHP]

even the best herpes blood tests still miss 1out of every 10 hsv1 infections. you know what you have and where you have it even though you aren't testing + for hsv1 on blood tests.

it doesn't work the same way for hsv2. really no reason to assume that if your hsv1 isn't showing up on herpes blood tests that hsv2 wouldn't either.

have you been following up on this monthly with the gyn, dermatologist or urogynecologist?  Are they doing testing for infections? have they done a biopsy of your skin yet?   Your prior post was in june so I sure hope you have been!!

grace