Is this herpes ?

[pal777]

I have tested negatively for HSV1 and HSV2 using both Herpes Select and the University of Washington Western Blot blood tests more than 1 year post a suspected exposure. I have never had any "classic symptoms" and no problem with my genitals. I have had pimples here and there on my thighs and once in a while on my buttocks.

However, I recently had a bump (almost the size of a dime) on my waist - bottom of my stomach or abot 4-5 inches above my genitals (below the belly button but above where I wear my pants). No itching no pain but it swelled turned red (7 days) , blistered (8th day) and it pused(day 9) and popped and now it looks like it is scabbing. All this over the last 9 days. My doctor could not accomodate me to take a look at this recent lesion. My question is that given the negative results of the blood tests should I rule out herpes and if not when should I go back for another blood test. I know 3 months should have been enough but should I :

1) Wait 3 more months to restest
2) Not restest - previous test results will suffice
3) Test again right away.

Thanks for your help.

[H. Hunter Handsfield, M.D.]

The lesion you describe does not sound particularly like herpes, both from the location and from the description itself; it sound more like folliculitis or an infected cyst.  If you have not been exposed to another possibly infected person in the past year, you know for sure you are not infected; i.e., your blood test results prove that your abdominal lesion could not have been herpes.

Put herpes out of your mind; you don't have it.  If you get other skin lesions you are concerned about, see a provider right away.  (If your own doc isn't available, you can always visit an urgent care clinic, planned parenthood, etc).

Good luck--  HHH, MD

[alwyssomething]

That does not sound like herpes, especially if it pussed and popped.  It sounds more like an infected hair follicle or pimple.  If it's right wear your pants are it could just be a blister or blood blister from the friction of your pants against your skin.