I was recently tested and the HSV ab screen IgM test says that it was detected, but the IgG tests for HSV 1 and HSV 2 were negative. I am really nervous. I do not know what to believe. I have been reading the forums and most say the IgM test is worthless. What should I do? Does this mean i have herpes?
your provider should update their herpes testing info by reading the 2010 cdc std guidelines. the herpes igm test is specifically mentioned as not being worth being drawn.
A + igm result doesn't really tell you anything.
how long prior to getting tested had you last had sex
I get tested routinely. I have had no symptoms nor have i seen any sores. The results for my HSV 1 & 2 IgG test both were below .2 and stated negative. I had sex
You can re-test if you want and should do so after 12 weeks of your last exposure.
However, please make sure you do no test for IgM test again. Only go for IgG test.
According to Dr. Handsfield and Dr. Hook in their previous post which I'm quoting now, the IgM test is not useful and the result should be ignored.
Your negative IgG test is highly re-assuring.