Wondering about my test results

I recently noticed some bumps and went to see my NP.  She did a culture for HSV and that came back positive.  I also had blood drawn for HSV1 and HSV 2.  My HSV 1 igG result is 2.39 and my HSV 2 igG result is 1.56.  How can I tell how long I have had it?  And is there anyway the tests are negative?

[gracefromHHP]

Do you have a regular partner? Have they been tested yet?

How long after you last had had sex prior to the symptoms did you get the blood test done?

grace

[needhelp27]

I had sex about 4 weeks prior to my blood test and it was protected.  I also had oral about a 10 days prior.  The guy did rub his penis around the area where I had an OB.  When would I have been infected?  Thanks!

[gracefromHHP]

did they type your lesion culture as to hsv1 or hsv2?


Back to your main question - no you can't tell how long you've had it before the blood test was done.  Your hsv2 igg is rather low which is why typing the culture would be helpful.

grace

[needhelp27]

I don't believe they typed the culture.  It just said positive.  Also, what does that mean since the igg for hsv2 is low?  Thanks!

[needhelp27]

I spoke with my NP today and she said it was culture type 2.  Also she said positive is positive.  I decided to go on the suppressive therapy.  I hope that prevents OB's.  There is some getting used to but life goes on.  Thanks for your replies!

[gracefromHHP]

Ok, them typing the culture is helpful and confirms your low positive hsv2 igg. Hopefully they really did type it and it's just not assumed it's type 2 since it's genital.  At this point assume it was done right.

Suppressive therapy will reduce ob's and reduce shedding of the virus. it doesn't eliminate ob's completely though or take away shedding completely.

Terri Warren has a terrific new book out "the good news about the bad news". It goes into more details than the free herpes handbook and if you can afford it, it's really worth purchasing and reading :)

grace

[needhelp27]

I checked the results again today myself and it does not specify the type on the culture.  It was done over a week ago.  I really would hate to call the office again but should I have my chart pulled and have them tell me?  What does a low positive mean?  I asked if I should get re-checked again later but she said that won't be necessary.  Your input is appreciated.

[gracefromHHP]

don't hesitate to call or email your provider and ask if there is a typing on the culture that you aren't aware of. If there wasn't, then repeat your blood test in a few months just to be sure it really is hsv2.

grace

[needhelp27]

I just checked and the culture was done for HSV2 and that was positive.  So what would that tell me about the Igg of 1.56?  Thanks!

[gracefromHHP]

Well actually it still tells you nothing but that you are + for hsv2.  No way to tell how long ago you contracted it from the blood tests.  

if you have a regular partner, have they been tested yet?

grace

[needhelp27]

I do not have a regular partner.  I don't even know where to begin in trying to figure out who my partners were.  What do you suggest?

[gracefromHHP]

Personally I don't suggest trying to contact former partners unless you really feel the need to do so. No way to tell which one it was and sometimes it's just far too stressful ( and even impossible ) to do it. If you've had a partner within the last month or two and are still in contact with them, consider talking to them about it but otherwise what's important is talking about this with future partners.

grace