HSV-2 results

I recently tested positive for herpes from a HSV 1+2 IGG test with a result of 8.24 H.

I know that this test is inconclusive fore deciphering the difference between herpes type 1 and type 2.

So last week I was tested for HSV-2, and the test came back positive - 1.26. This was a Herpesselect test. I intend on having a BiokitUSA test ASAP for verification.

Now, I have NEVER experienced any symptoms from herpes type 1 or type 2 in my life. I have only been with three people in the last 1 1/2 years, and I know that all for all of them, I was their 2nd to 3rd partner. I highly doubt if I contracted herpes from any of them.

I have been in a relationship for the past two months, and we have been waiting to receive the results from our STD tests before having sex. My girlfriend's results were all negative.

My question is, what are the chances that I truly have HSV-2? I have had a decent amount of partners in the past, but recently, I have been super careful and cautious about who I sleep with.

Based upon my lack of ever displaying symptoms, the presence of HSV-1 in my body, and a relatively low score of HSV-2, what is the probability that I will test positive again for HSV-2?

[Terri Warren, RN, Adult Nurse Practitioner]

Your index value of 1.26 is certainly low.  You need confirmatory testing, and I actually would recommend the western blot at the University of Washington as the best test for you. The Biokit, if negative, would also be useful.   When was the last time you had sex with someone other than your partner who tests negative?  I would advise, for the most accuracy, to wait 3-4 months from your last possible exposure.  

So there could be three reasons for a low positive index value like yours:

1) brand new infection, moving from negative to a higher positive value, usually >5, passing through this low positive range
2) false positive
3) just a low positive value that's real and without any meaning or impact on your infection.

In a paper by Matt Golden out of Seattle, more false positives were seen in people who were HSV 1 positive.  However, when we looked at this question in our clinic with false low positive values, we found no correlation with HSV 1 positivity.  

I hope the confirmatory test provides you with greater clarity.  I think there's a decent chance you are negative - can't give you a percentage, however.  

Terri