Herpes results

Hello,
About a year and a half ago, I had an HSV-2 test done at my clinic.  The results came back 1.13, and my doctor said that was positive.  I then found out through this sight about low-positives and to use Herpes Select testing.  I went back to my doctor and tested again, this time using the Herpes Select test.  The results came back .84, which is negative.  
Ok, so this year at the end of February I had sex with a girl who said she was clean, but I had my suspicions later.  I tested right away for everything, and tested negative for all.  Then I waited 13 weeks and got tested again.  This time I did HSV-1 and HSV-2, but not with the Herpes Select.  I tested as folows:

HSV-1:  greater than 5
HSV-2:  1.73

I am hoping the HSV-2 is a low-positive that turns out to be negative like the last time.  I asked my doctor if he used the Herpes Select this time, and he said no, so I want him to test for HSV-2 again and make sure he uses the Herpes Select.  So my question is: do you think the 1.73 could be a false postive like last time?  Thank you for your input.

[gracefromHHP]

A 2nd test to confirm your status is a good idea. You can use a herpes WB or a biokit.

grace

[Jas333]

Ok.  I have an apointment with my doctor on Monday to get a HerpeSelect A/B HSV-2 w/reflex test done.  He doesn't know how to access a Western Blot, but I will talk to him about Biokit.  I am not sure if my Medicare would cover those, so I'll get the HerpeSelect done first.  I'll let you know if I have any more questions and what next week's result is.  I have never had an obvious cold sore, so I am not sure if the HSV-1 is oral or genital outbreak either.

[Jas333]

Well, got my Herpeselct test back for HSV-2.  

IgG is 1.38

Still a low positive.  My doctor said I could wait a few more months and try again, but said at this point he wouldn't.  I told him about Western Blot and Biokit, so I guess I should look into that.  Or should I just figure I have HSV-2?

Tested last year:

1st was 1.13
2nd was 0.84

Tested this year:

1st was 1.73
2nd is 1.38

[gracefromHHP]

definitely follow up on it. odds are you don't have hsv2.

http://depts.washington.edu/rspvirus/herpes.htm  has all the info your provider needs for the WB for herpes.

[Jas333]

Hi,
I am back again.  Here is my background:

Tested positive for HSV2 around January 2009
IgG: 1.13

Tested negative for HSV2 around May 2009
IgG: o.84

Tested negative for HSV2 around March 2010
IgG: don't know

Tested postitive for HSV2 and positive for HSV1 in June 2010
IgG: 1.73 for HSV2
IgG: greater than 5 for HSV1

Tested positive for HSV2 in July 2010
IgG: 1.34

Tested positive for HSV2 October 2011, another year later
IgG: 1.18

I consistantly test either low positive or sometimes negative without having any noticable symptoms.  I think I a had couple cold sores 2 years ago which were very minor, and only got them that year (thought they were pimples near my mouth), otherwise never had them before (I am 36).  I may have contracted HSV1 2-3 years ago and maybe that is causing the false HSV2 readings.  What do you think?  Thank you again for all your help.  I think I need to go for the Western Blot at this point, just don't have the money for that now.

[gracefromHHP]

I suggested the WB over a year ago. way past time for it!!

[Jas333]

Lol, I know. I should just follow through with the WB.  Someone posted that it is almost $300, but I followed a link you gave me that said it is $162.50.  It may be a few months before I can come up with that.  I do have Medicare, so going to see if they accept that.  I will share the results. Thanks again!

[gracefromHHP]

I doubt they accept medicare actually since it's not a FDA approved test. you'll have to pay out of pocket for it.