Tested But Confused

Like so many other postings I have read on Medhelp I am also seeking an explanation of my results, among deeper understanding without having to get a degree in molecular biology.

I was recently tested for HSV-1 and HSV-2 using a type specific serological method. my results indicate that I am infected with both HSV 1 and two.

My results:

HSV-1 igG - 3.3

HSV-2 igG - 1.9

Now I have read many posting responses by H. Hunter Handsfield, M.D, that express that a definitive diagnosis cannot be made with readings under 3.5. Also he has discussed that the reason a positive result is considered at 1.1 and not 3.5 is the required initial research needed after FDA approval to change the parameters of the test.  I have a series of questions that I hope can be answered.

1)  My HSV-2 igg is .4 lower than the median (2.3) of a positive result (1.1) and the definitive (3.5) result. In your professional opinion what is the probability of a false positive?

2) I have had only 2 known oral outbreaks and a definitely zero genital outbreaks in my life, so a viral culture is out of the question. I know the PCR exam is reliant on viral shedding, which doesn't occur all the time. How many negative PCR exams should I have to be considered definitively negative?

3) My doctor and I have discussed, while not at length, my HSV-2 IgG levels and possible fluctuations in readings, he stated that if I were to be tested serologically in four weeks a +/- .2 reading in reference to my 1.9 would be considered stable. My question is what would an influx or reduction of a significant value indicate, and what could be the cause?

4) I have been sexually active for approx. 5 years, and been with 5 people, of which I have used a condom all but twice. I know the probability of contraction between outbreaks is roughly 8% without a condom and a condom can reduce that by upwards of 40% making it 6%. My current girlfriend and I have had sex twice, probability is on my side that when she is tested, if she tests positive it was not me that infected her. This is mostly for peace of mind, but is that an accurate assumption?

5) I have been reading studies, and informational websites for the past 72 hours, everything from how the virus is transmitted to how it interacts with the immune system and the different antibodies that it interacts with. I don't understand a lot of the terminology used, simply put I am not a virologist. However, it is my understanding that the HSV-2 interacts with igG2a which is one of the subclasses of the igG2 antibody, the other two being igG2ab and igG2b. The amino acids are what dictates the specificity and cross-reactivity of an antibody. Please correct me if I am wrong about any of this, but is there a known, or the possibility of a cross reactive antibody that would cause a false positive in the igG specific test?  

Thank you to anyone who can shed (no pun intended) light on the subject. Also to anyone looking for answers I hope some of the answers I get help you. If I have learned anything from this experience so far, I am definitely not alone in this, we need more research into the subject matter of; testing without outbreaks, vaccines, cures, and the social stigma needs to change.  

Again thank you for the responses. I look forward to reading them.

[gracefromHHP]

you need to confirm your status with additional testing. if your gf has tested negative for hsv2 then at this point a herpes WB test is the next course of action for you.

grace