HSV-2 Inhibition

I recently was tested for HSV-2 with Herpes Select ELISA IGG.  I have taken this test before.  I got a 1.51, .80, .90, 1.13 set of scores four different times in that order.  Odd...anyway, I was wondering if these were false positives, etc.  I have never had symptoms.  This last test though (1.13) had another test called the HSV-2 inhibition which tested positive.  Does that mean I shouldn't bother with a Western Blot?

[gracefromHHP]

When you had the inhibition assay done - you should've gotten a %. Do you know what it is?

grace

[tomy7]

No percentage listed.

[gracefromHHP]

and you are sure it was the herpes inhibition assay?

grace

[tomy7]

yes - HSV-2 Inhibition.  I wrote to the lab and they responded: The lab's recommendation was... Do not worry so much.  I recommend you speak with youe doctor for more info, as we are not permitted by law to advise you.  What I can tell you is the one low positive is in the equivocal range on the more recent specimen.  It does not appear to be cause for alarm.  Your doctor will tell you if he feels it is worth repeating.  All lab tests have a sensitivity and a specificity of somewhat less than 100%.  Meaning any test can have some minor margin of false positivity.  They are designed that way.  The medical community would rather have that than false negatives, and have disease missed.

[gracefromHHP]

Oh my - I can't believe that was the answer you were given. That isn't how you interpret the inhibition assay at all :(


I guess at this point if you really need confirmation of a negative status get the WB and be done with it.

grace