I've read a bunch of other posts, but still would like to ask a couple questions.
I'll start with my timeline.
Tests for hsv-1 have always been negative.
In July 2012, hsv-2 tested equivocal (1.01). At the time, the dr. said that since I had no symptoms it was nothing to worry about. I have since learned that is not necessarily true. Las December (2015) I tested positive 1.89 for hsv-2 at Quest (it was an igg test).
I have never had any herpes symptom in my boxer short region, but I have had a red spot on my lip three times that I do not believe is a pimple. Never a classic blister, but I don't believe a pimple. More like a small red circle, maybe 1/8" to 1/4" in diameter. There is no pain, discomfort, or tingling that accompanies it. It's just there for several days to a week. No scab or ulcer, either, when it leaves. It just shows up and disappears.
My questions are:
1. Could this be oral hsv-2?
2. If the equivocal of 1.01 was accurate in 7/2012, does the 1.89 in 12/2015 make sense or would it be much higher?
3. I've read about a lot of false positives for igg results below 3.5, but much of it centers around 'low risk' population. Is there a reason that it isn't just the value of the igg result that matters for this? Admittedly, there was a time period when I was not in the low risk population (due to number and frequency of partners) and I'm wondering if this really reduces the likelihood of a false positive.
4. I've read that the transmission rates for oral hsv-2 are much lower than any other type/location of herpes. How low is it?
5. Should I have another igg test done at Quest?
6. I've read that the biokit test or Western Blot are better. Is the biokit reliable enough to conclusively confirm a positive test or expose a false positive? What is the accuracy and reliability of the biokit test relative to the Western Blot?
Because I have one of these spots right now, I've contacted my dr. and asked if he should take a look at it today. I'm also going to contact my dermatologist when the office opens and ask her to take a look at it, too.