Recent HSV-1 test, question about low positive

[kyle09876]

I recently took an STD test because I met a person, thought it was going somewhere and I wanted to be responsible about it. HSV-1 IGG came back positive at 2.40. I have had multiple partners, the long term ones I tested with, and other times I used condoms (I get that condoms aren't 100% effective). This though was the first time I had a full panel done, as I was told usually they don't test for Herpes and I was shocked (I really think that should be made clearer upon getting tested) Everything else came back negative, and since the doctor seemed uninterested an not so helpful I had a few questions I wanted to ask:

1. 2.40 from my understanding is a low positive is this correct?
2. If it is a low positive how long before I should go and get retested?
3. Should I take a different test this time around? I have read western blot test is more definitive?
4. I have never had an outbreak that I was aware of is there any way to figure out where I have HSV-1 (if I do have it)
5. The doctor said to me that 80%of people have HSV-1 and that since I am asymptomatic that it's not worth bringing up with partners,that sounds.... wrong?

I am a little confused and any help would be greatly appreciated.

[kyle09876]

I've never had oral cold soars that I can remember,and I never saw it on my parents. If I was infected I don't suspect it was recently though, possibly before adolescence would make sense.

Despite the fact that I am in my 30s and most doctors say it's not possible, I have DEFINITELY had shingles. Usually on my back right where my shoulder blade is. Would that affect the IGG test at all?

That is something I can feel is tingly/burns all the time when I get stressed and/or sick. Plus that area will definitely break out in lesions, they are very painful and it's happened at least twice that I can recall.

[Fleetwood20]

The first thing to note is that you most likely do have an oral HSV1 infection from your youth. This is exceptionally common. Have you ever had an oral cold sore? Do either of your parents experience cold sores.

Unless you've had a breakout of sores on your genitals, you have no reason to suspect genital HSV1.

Hence answering your questions:
1. Low positives are more a feature and subject to studies with HSV2 and not HSV1. HSV1 testing is a bit more tricky for various reasons. It is best to assume this is a positive given the high proportion of the population with HSV1.
2. Wait three months if you wish, but I do not think you need to retest, it matters not whether you do or do not have HSV1.
3. The WB will be definitive for you if you'd like to confirm.
4. If you cannot recall a genital outbreak, then 95%+ chance this is oral.
5. I think the doctor has a point. I also see no harm in saying 'I have the cold sore virus'. Remember that very likely you will hear 'Oh I think I had a few as a kid.'