Classic Symptoms - Enough to Worry?

[ShouldIWorry2]

I've read almost all of the postings for Herpes, etc. and have learned that 1.) the initial Herpes outbreak almost always involves the genitals, 2) that the prodrome/tingling/burning sensation (sp?) is associated with recurrent outbreaks, not initial outbreaks, 3.) that genital herpes does not "like" the groin area or hairy areas, especially for the initial outreak, and 4.) a single, protected vaginal intercourse event carries low risk for acquiring genital herpes (unless there is an active outbreak at the time), even if one partner is infected.

I've also learned from other sites that if a person is HSV 1 positive then a person who aquires HSV 2 will have what is considered an "initial" outbreak, which might produce mild symptoms, not a "primary" outbreak, which might produce the severe symptoms usually associated with HSV-2.

Here is my situation, I'm HSV-1 positive (I had severe Cold Sore outbreaks as a teenager, but have not had an outbreak for over 10 years), I had protected vaginal sex with a sex worker on 11/27, here's what followed:

-a few days after the potential exposure I began to feel a mild burning sensation between my left thigh and groin (in the crease between the leg and my testicles).  There was no itching.  

-on 12/02 (5 days after potential exposure) I noticed a rash in the area where the mild burning sensation occured.  I did not notice any bumps or blisters, but the skin "might" have appeared to be scratched in some areas (can't really remember)  

-the rash completely disappeared within 3 days.  I went to the doctor, explained the situation, and asked her to examine the area where the rash was, she said she could not see anything at all.

-on 12/23, exactly 3 weeks after the inital rash appeared I began to feel the same burning sensation in the exact same location (between left thigh and groin), about 24 hours later a rash appeared, it seemed to be in a straight line in the fold of my groin, and I think bumps appeared as well, but they seemed to be around hair follicles (but that area is so hairy I couldn't really tell).  

-it's been 3 days, and the redness is mostly gone, but I swear I still see bumps.  None of them are painful to touch and there has been no blistering or scabbing (yet) or itching.

Here are my questions:

-is this just a wierd coincidence, or is this common for mild HSV-2 herpes outbreaks for a person who is HSV-1 positive?

-both of my rash "outbreaks" sound more like recurrent outbreaks than initial and then recurrent, could this also be a result of my HSV-1 infection?

-is there anyone else here on the forums who have experienced the same symptoms as I have?  what was your result?

-even though my symptoms are not typical, are they close enough to be concerned?  What else should I watch out for?

I don't know what I would have done without this forum.  Thank you all!

[H. Hunter Handsfield, M.D.]

Thanks for reading up before asking your question. Your symptoms are not typical of herpes, both because the location is atypical for an initial outbreak (groin, not genitals) and the symptoms themselves aren't typical.  For example, the only "bumps" associated with herpes are the start of lessions that rapidly turn to blisters then open sores; skin bumps that just sit there are never herpes.

However, the symptoms of genital herpes are highly variable and I would never say it is impossible.  But if you were to test positive for HSV-2, I would not know whether to blame the recent exposure and symptoms you descibe, or whether you actually acquired it some other time.

Bottom line:  I tend to doubt you have genital herpes.  But the only way to know with certainty is to have a blood test in a few weeks.

Happy holidays--  HHH, MD

[susannak]

I think the doctor is going to tell you that this doesn't sound particularly like HSV2, but you can always take a HerpeSelect test to find out for sure.  It may be too early though.  You may need to wait a bit.

[bigmonkeycar]

if you say that the rash is in "the fold between your thigh and groin," i would tend to guess that this might be jock itch...don't know what the doctor would say about that, but i have experienced similar symptoms in the past that were definately not related to HSV, and jock itch medication helped right away. in my case it occured right on the "fold" as you describe (i.e. if you open your leg you see the irritation in a straight line, probably from a result of that area being 'covered' normally and sweaty, chafed, &c) with corrolary irritation of the hair follices in that same area.

just a thought