Negative IGGs and PCR Swab- Is it over?

[scarednow526]

Teri,

I wanted to follow up and get your opinion on one or two things before I closed out this chapter of my life.  Please see our previous discussions here:

http://www.medhelp.org/posts/Herpes/115-week-Test-Still-Low-Negative/show/1940398#post_9075185

Summary:

*2 Instances of protected vaginal and oral with 2 different CSW's.
*9 total IGG tests across 3 different brands (Capita, Herpeselect, and Biokit), all NEGATIVE for HSV1 & HSV2.
*Last 2 IGG tests not mentioned in previous thread were Herpeselect with no values given, only NEGATIVE at 19 weeks and 24.5 weeks from last incident.
*PCR Swab @ 28.5 weeks NEGATIVE.

I have also had multiple physical exams with no one raising concerns that my anal irritation (and often burning sensation in groin and tip of penis) are related to HSV.

That said, I have no diagnosis of anything other than "wet, keep dry",  yet my symptoms are present almost every day regardless of skin condition. Spots on my anus show up on avg. every 2 to 2.5 wks.  No more than 3 wks of clear skin at any time since I noticed.  Present as cracks in the skin most often around a skin tag.  Heal within 3-5 days.  Most often there is only 1 crack.

Questions:

1.  PCR swab was done by me at home.  Dr. gave no real instructions, just rub the tip over an open sore rather vigorously, and place in the tube.  I had 2 swabs, and only one would fit in the tube.  I rubbed with both swabs but ended up throwing one away.  Is there any secret to getting a good sample?  

2.  The PCR came back NEGATIVE.  My Dr. says that was the final straw.  He said condom use along with the chances that the IGG tests (especially across several brands) missed an infection at nearly 6 months from the incident was so small to begin with that the PCR was not really even necessary in his mind (I talked him into it).  Now, with a NEGATIVE PCR, that closes things out.  Do you agree?

3. Would you consider this over?

[Terri Warren, RN, Adult Nurse Practitioner]

You are most welcome.

Terri

[scarednow526]

You are correct Teri.  What the heck am I thinking???!!!

I've done this to myself.  Likewise, I have the power to let it be over as well.  No doubt about it.

  A year ago I would never have imagined that I would be in this position.  I was quite normal.  I need to make up my mind to return to that normal.  Forgive myself and be thankful that I do not have herpes.

I can assure you, I have learned from my mistakes.  7 months of my life wasted.  I hope others will see and think before they act.

Thank you for the help.  Goodbye.  :-)

[Terri Warren, RN, Adult Nurse Practitioner]

1.  No.  You received the same instructions that we would give our patients while collecting a sample.  Rub vigorously and place in the tube.
2.  I completely agree with your doctor.
3.  You need to LET this be over.  Ask yourself, what on earth is it going to take before you believe that you are not infected?

I'm not going to elaborate on this because there is really nothing more to say.  We've gone round and round and now it is up to you to accept reality.  Most people with herpes would be thrilled to have your lab results.

Terri