Herpes and Confused?

Question

Okay - a few months back I had a herpes test from Labcorp - the test were - "HSV 1 and 2-specific Ab, IgG" and "HSV, IgM I/II combination" that what was listed on my bill. I have been in a relationship for over four months and I had these test done before this relationship started. So worse case scenario my results are atleast four mos old.... Anyway, I was confused about the results initially till I sat down with my doctor this week - and he told me I had tested postive for the antibodies for HSV2. That I have been exposed to the virus... Apparently these Antibodies are "old" - I may have that wrong if that's not possible - also there was a number i think 4.06?? anyway I have never had any outbreaks, sympton, etc...And i was wondering if these test were good test, reliable? and if theses test could generate a false positive? Does these antibodies mean I have HSV2? it all seems very confusing and slightly stressful on my relationship now though we have been having sex (protected) for the last four mos...

This discussion is related to Confusiion over other IgM Herpes posts.

webcrawler · Answer

If you have the antibodies, you have herpes. The lab is wrong. Herpes is a lifelong infection that may or may not show symptoms. A score of 4+ would rarely be false positive.

gracefromHHP · Answer

Unfortunatley it sounds like they really don't understand herpes blood tests where you spoke to them at :(  

grace

guyfootballfan · Answer

Thanks for getting back to me Grace but now I am more confused because I just spoke with one of the top facilities ( my GF doctor is there)  and they told me unless there is a break out - they can never be 100% sure if it's herpes.  The antiobodies means there was exposure - and the test I was given they said was ****...they would never give a patient that test even if the patient asked for it.....so i guess we'll just have to see if there is ever a break out....thanks though....

gracefromHHP · Answer

If you had a hsv2 igg of 4.06 then no it's not likely to be a false positive.

The labcorp blood test is reliable and fda approved.

I encourage you and your gf to read the herpes handbook at www.westoverheights.com to learn more about herpes and how to reduce her risk. I assume she was tested too and is negative?  Have you two discussed daily suppressive therapy to lower her risk even more than just using condoms?

grace