First and perhaps most important, you should totally ignore the HSV-2 IgM antibody test result. It does not indicate HSV-2 infection (search other threads for more discussion) and your symptoms in no way suggest herpes. However, I cannot tell whether your IgG test was type-specific, not knowing what tests are done in China.
Your plan/desire for a truly type-specific test, like HerpeSelect, is the right way to go. Britain's genitourinary medicine clinics are excellent, by and large; there are several in London and at least one in most other mid- to large urban area. Any GUM clinic will have access to type-specific HSV tests, and you can rely on a high level of expertise about herpes among the professional staff.
Good luck-- HHH, MD
Thanks for that. They said the test was type specific. As I say though, the only positive igg was for herpes I. The herpes II was positive for igm only. What does that mean? I have always had cold sores, so that explains the herpes I I suppose.
If the IgG was non-type specific (which, in China, it probably was), the HSV-1 positive result could mean HSV-1, HSV-2, or both. Based on your history of cold sores, most likely you are positive only for HSV-1, but a truly type specific test is necessary to know for sure.
HHH, MD
I was told specifically that the test was type specific for the last test - which I took at an international clinic... where the results were the same. HSV-I igg pos. HSV-I igm neg. HSV-II igg neg. HSV-II igm pos. Would you expect the HSV-II igg to be positive at 6 months plus if I had it?
If you are certain your tests in China were type specific, then you don't need any more testing; the HSV-2 IgG test would be positive by now. However, I can understand the anxiety you might feel about the IgM HSV-2 result. If you want still further reassurance, follow up on my initial advice about HSV testing at a GUM clinic.
HHH, MD