Clarification of Test Results

I recently had standard STD screening. (I have no symptoms of any kind.) Everything came back normal except for the herpes results.  I believe the test was a Herpes Select test, although I'm not 100% sure.  

My results for the 'igG' as follows:  HSV1 = 5 and HSV2 = 1.4

He discounted any 'igM' results; saying they were inconclusive and irrelevant.

My doctor does not seem concerned about the results and says I should not worry.  He commented that often when the HSV1 is elevated that the HSV2 is can be 'falsely' elevated. Since equivocal results for HSV2 are 1.10, he isn't concerned. I initially thought this was a good explanation; however now I am reading on the internet that these tests are indeed very accurate at distinguishing HSV1 vs HSV2.  What are your thoughts please.  Thank you.

[H. Hunter Handsfield, M.D.]

Your doctor sounds like a knowledgeable person; his awareness that the IgM result should be discounted indicates that he is up to speed on HSV diagnosis.  I agree with him.

As to interpreting your HSV-1 and HSV-2 results:  Almost the identical situation was presented earlier today:  see my response to 1gohwar, "HSV-1 and HSV-2 results".  You are in virtually the same situation, and you should follow the same advice.

Good luck-- HHH, MD