herpes diagnosis

[scorpio123]

I was diagnosed with genital herpes in October of last year.  A doctor at a walk-in clinic diagnosed me with genital herpes and perscribed acyclovir, which I began taking immediately.  Two days later, I went to see my regular  doctor who did a swab that came back negative.  In September of this year, I did the immunoblot IgG tests to determine which type I had.  This was done through the Hassle Free Clinic in my city because my own doctor did not see the relevance in finding out which type I had.  The tests came back negative for both.  As I wanted to get a second opinion, I went to see my own Doctor to order further testing.  She ordered Serologic Testing.  This was done 2 weeks ago  and the results for Herpes Simplex Virus IgG EIA  came back as reactive and the Test Herpes Simplex Virus Interpretation came back with antibodies detected.  I am now really confused about the accuracy of the tests and would appreciate knowing what you think and whether further testing is recommended.  Thank you so much.

[scorpio123]

Thank you,
I hope to hear back from the expert forum soon.

[scorpio123]

Thank you for your response. A swab was taken and it came back negative.  My doctor thought that this was because I had already been taking the acyclovir for approx. 3 days.
I have had the Immunoblot IgG test done, for which I paid for. This test came back negative for both types.  Is this not more reliable than the Western blot or are they the same ? I recently had Serologic testing done and this came back positive.  Therein lies the confusion.  Which to believe?

[gracefromHHP]

you paid to post this on the herpes expert forum. wait for your reply there and get your money's worth.  

grace

[buster136]

I would want to know how the first doc diagnosed you? was there a test done? or just a visual examination? if a swab was taken from a sore and it was positive for hsv, then I would say that was your best answer? a swab from a sore or leision is supposed to be the most accurate? the blood tests can be more confusing?
                                                I would test again (blood) for antibodies, even just for your mindsake? and if you want to spend the money, and get the most (belived) accurate test, get a western blot done?

[Sara4121]

Okay since you've had an outbreak a year ago you do have herpes. I don't see a need for you to take anymore tests. If anything that can really just stress you out. Herpes just doesn't go away as much as we wish it would.
I've had HSV-2 since August of last year by a doctor who just looked at my outbreak. I still question myself because I don't get outbreaks either. Sometimes it feels like one is coming on but nothing happens.
I may not be much help but if your really concerned that you may not have HSV you can go to your citys health dept and they can talk with you about this and get a test done or you can accept what you have.
Hope you find what you need :)

[scorpio123]

No, I haven't had an outbreak in over 1 year.

[scorpio123]

No, I haven't had an outbreak in over 1 year.

[Sara4121]

I'm guessing you haven't had an outbreak?