HSV1 Inconsistent Reseults

When I was 17, I developed walking pneumonia and during that time developed severe genital blisters. During a visit to the doctor at that time, I asked about it and I was told it was probably an infection that developed secondary to the pneumonia. At this time, I had never had any sexual experiences nor HSV symptoms elsewhere on my body.

One year later, I had my first sexual experience and received oral sex. Within a few weeks, I developed blisters again and a culture was positive for HSV1. I notices that these sores were VERY similar to the ones I had had a year prior.  I also had mono during this time.

I have not had any symptoms since that time, which was 6 years ago. About 6 months ago, I tested negative for both HSV 1 and 2 via Herpes Select (IgG). About 1 month later, I received a 2nd blood test through a different clinic that was also negative for both (type of test is unknown).

A nurse contacted the CDC with my situation following the first blood test this year. They suggested a few explanations, including that the culture was a false positive (which I've heard is almost impossible), the serology tests were false negatives, or that I have seroreverted (I still don't fully understand what that means). The fact that I was extremely ill during both outbreaks, one of which was caused by a herpes virus, seems suspect, especially since having herpes when I was 17 seems impossible. I understand that similar dilemmas have been posted in the forum and that this type of situation is so rare, there is little literature, but any insight that you could share would be appreciated. Thanks!

[gracefromHHP]

even the best blood tests we have still miss 1 out of every 10 hsv1 infections. You have a + lesion culture for hsv1 so odds are you really do have hsv1 genitally. You might never get a + blood test for hsv1 but you can try a herpes WB if you think you'd feel better seeing a + blood test result. Otherwise should you ever get a return of genital symptoms, be seen within 48 hours of their appearance for a lesion culture and typing.   hsv1 genitally typically doesn't reoccur very often so it might not occur anytime soon though ( which of course isn't a bad thing over all! ).

There are many viral illnesses that will cause genital lesions also. Mono is one of them. there also is a condition called Ulcus vulvae acutum that will cause genital lesions after many viral illnesses.

you know you didn't have hsv1 genitally with your first symptoms since you hadn't received any oral sex prior to that.

hope that helps a little!

grace

[inga595]

Thank you, Grace!!