Herpes Simplex
Also known as Herpes Simplex Pcr BloodWhat is this test?
This test is used to find out the Herpes Simplex Antigen in the blood.
What is Herpes Simplex Virus:
Herpes Simplex Virus is a virus that causes contagious sores around the mouth or the genitals (reproduction organs). The Herpes Simplex Virus is categorized into 2 types. They are Herpes Simplex virus Type-1 HSV-1 and Herpes Simplex Virus type-2 HSV-2. HSV-1 is transmitted by oral-to-oral contact and causes sores or herpes around and in the mouth region. HSV-2 is sexually transmitted and causes infection in the genital or anal area. Both HSV-1 & HSV-2 are lifelong infections.
Antibodies are the protective proteins produced by the immune system and also known as immunoglobulins. Antibodies are produced when any foreign substance or virus or bacteria enters into the body. These foreign substances are known as antigens. Antibodies recognize and attach to the antigens in order to remove them from the body. There are five (5) subtypes of antibodies and they are IgG, IgM, IgA, IgD, IgE.
Why This test Is Performed:
This test is performed to check the presence of Herpes Simplex Antigens in the blood. The doctor may ask you to undergo this test if you are suffering from symptoms such as ulcers or painful blisters in or around the mouth, fever, body aches, swollen lymph nodes, genital or anal blisters or open sores (ulcers). If you are experiencing a tingling, burning or itching sensation around the mouth, or shooting pain in the hips, buttocks, and legs then the doctor may recommend this test.
If you are on the treatment for Herpes Simplex Virus HSV-1 and 2 then the doctor may ask you to perform this test to evaluate and to check the effectiveness of the treatment and Herpes Simplex 1 and 2 Antigens in the blood. Mostly, this test is done along with other tests to confirm the diagnosis.
This test helps in the early diagnosis of HSV-1 and HSV-2 infections and helps in anti-viral therapy which can prevent life-threatening complications in immunocompromised individuals.
How Often This Test Should Be Performed:
If you have been diagnosed with HSV, your doctor may advise you to get this test done once in 2 years based on your clinical condition. If you are a healthy individual above the age of 35, your doctor may advise you to undergo this test either on a yearly basis or every other year.
Precautions:
Some medications may change the test results and hence you are advised to inform all your current medications to the doctor prior to the test.
Also known as HSV Type 1 and 2 Detection Test PCR Blood, HSV Type 1 and 2 Detection Test.
Test Preparation
Inform your doctor if you are on any medications, have any allergies or underlying medical conditions before your Herpes Simplex. Your doctor will give specific instructions depending on your condition on how to prepare for Herpes Simplex.
There are no specific preparations required for this test.
Understanding your test results
The test results may be different depending on gender, age, health conditions, and other factors.
If the test results are negative it may indicate that there are no Herpes Simplex 1 and 2 Antigens in the blood and no infection of Herpes Simplex Virus Type-1 and Type-2 HSV-1, HSV-2. The negative results do not rule out the possibility of the infection and hence retesting is recommended after 8-14 days.
In case the test results are positive it may indicate that there are Herpes Simplex 1 and 2 Antigens in the blood and an indicator of past or acute infection of Herpes Simplex Virus Type-1 and Type-2 HSV-1, HSV-2.
Based on the test results, your doctor may advise appropriate medical treatments, lifestyle modifications, or further diagnostic tests.
| Gender | Age groups | Value |
| UNISEX | All age groups | Antigen detected in positive cases |
| UNISEX | All age groups | Antigen detected in positive cases |