confused results

[pink06]

This is another question regarding confusing test results.  In May of 2005 my doctor diagnosed me with HSV2.  My test results at that time was:

HSV 1 IgG (EIA) = .07
HSV 2 IgG (EIA) = .24

HSV 1/2 IgM = 4.14

My doctor at that time said I was positive for genital Herpes and that I had just contacted the virus.  At the time I was tested I was also being treated for trichomoniasis.  She said eventually my IgG levels will turn positive.  I was severely depressed trying to cope with having HSV an over time have learned to accept it.  But after reading your site regarding IgM tests I decided to have my doctor test me again.  I just received my results today, 9 months after my first test and these are the numbers:

HSV 1 IgG (EIA) = .16
HSV 2 IgG (EIA) = .65

HSV ½ IgM = 2.13

Can you explain why my numbers are going up?  Is my doctor correct in saying that my IgG will turn positive over time?  It has been 9 months and from reading other questions on the site my IgG levels should have a positive result by now if I am infected with HSV 2, right?  I am very confused by these results and what my doctor tells me. I haven't spoken to her aout the results yet but I wanted to get your response first.  Do IgG tests turn positive over time?  Since my IgM levels have went down, does that mean anything?  I would just like some answers because now I don't know what to think.  
Help!

[H. Hunter Handsfield, M.D.]

This is a great example of the uselessness of IgM herpes antibody tests.  Your apparently positive IgM test was meaningless, and your doctor's prediction that your IgG result would become positive obviously was wrong.

Your second IgG result is no more positive than the first.  Any variation in EIA ratio is meaningless as long as the result is less than 1.0.  The difference between your first HSV-2 result of 0.24 and the second of 0.65 is purely due to minor chemical variations in the test reagents, not the result of a "little bit" of HSV antibody starting to appear in your blood.  Also, your apparently dropping IgM antibody level is equally meaningless as the first result.

Bottom line:  Your results indicate without doubt that you have not been infected with either HSV-1 or HSV-2.  (Asssuming, or course, that you were exposed within a few weeks before the second test result.)

Good luck--  HHH, MD

[pink06]

Thank you so much doctor for clearing this up for me. I haven't been exposed to any STD because I have been so afraid. I was taking Valtrex up until Dec.,could that have affected my results? Once again, thank you so very much.

[binky2005]

no, valtrex doesn't affect results.

[pink06]

Thank you, binky2005.

[niceguy1]

Hey Pink, I have had a similiar situation, a borederline IGM test and negative IGG test.  The IGM test can give false positives even if you have niether HSV 1 or 2.  All IGM test can give false positives, but for some reason it appears to happen more with the Herpes test.  Your doctor was wrong because the diagnosis of herpes can not be from a positive IGM test.  They are stupid test that mean nothing.  No symptom and negative IGG test means no herpes.  You are in the clear.

[WorriedSick22]

I was diagnosed with Chlamydia and GW (hpv) last summer and I have been having recurring yeast infections. I thought it might be herpes, but everytime my doctor took a culture it turned up negative. Finally (after 3 months and 1 week, exactly 101 days from exposure) I got an IGG herpeselect test that tested for hsv1 and hsv 2. They both came out negative. Should I test again? I have never had problems down there, but after I got chlamydia I noticed many changes, a lot of discomfort and irritation down there, it feels like there's swelling or inflammation. Please help! Monkeyflower, I admire you for what you do on this site. And doc, the work is do is amazing, considering there's so many ignorant doctors out there that don't do research or keep with the times. I feel like I know more than my doc about herpes.

[niceguy1]

101 days should be enough time, but if you still need peace of mind wait till the 4-5 month mark and get a herpes select IGG test or the western Blot test.  Most people would have tested positive by 101 days if they were infected but in some rare cases it may be longer.

[Foolish]

I recently found out that my fiancee was cheating on me and/or attempted to and probably with several woman.  I got tested for everything right away and the test came up positive for HSV-1.  I have had a few cold sores in my twenties and none since then, I am now 31. My mother and brothers have had them their whole life.  My gyno said I had genital herpes but have not had any symptoms or outbreaks.  How can it be determined that it's not the oral showing up in my blood vs. genital if there are no genital symptoms? Could it be a mistake and she is seeing the results for the oral?

[ThoughtlessRage]

%50 percent of the population has hsv1, and most get it in childhood or their early teens. its likely that half the people you have had sex with it unknowingly had hsv1 as well. in fact i believe i've had it since i was 6 years old because i've had reaccuring cold sores in my mouth for years. it really isnt a big deal and i wouldnt worry about it.

[kyle22]

A related discussion, I need help was started.