Hi. I recently (yesterday) received a "low positive" result on a HerpesSelect test of 1.19 for HSV-2. Other than being extraordinarily embarrased, scared, and now a bit sleep deprived as it hasn't really sunk in, I have been doing as much research as I can on my own, but have a few more questions.

1) One source told me to get retested, as that figure is very close to the "equivocal" 1.1 result. Is it true that this could be a false positive? I have never had an any outbreak/symptoms, or recent exposure, though I do know that is not necessary to have the virus. If so, what would you reccomend as a second test? I read your "test guide" but I just want a FOR SURE answer, and there is no "this test is better" in that guide.

2) If I havn't had my initial outbreak yet, should I still be on suppressive therapy so that it possibly never occurrs, or should I wait to see if the virus clinically manifests itself first? I understand that it reduces the risk of transmission during sex along with the use of condoms, but right now I am not going to be having ANY sex until I am comfortable with this situation, so that is not my primary concern.

3) What is the longest incubation period for HSV-2. I have been having unprotected sex with my girlfriend for two months, and she just tested negative (we tested together). I have already informed her of my (and our) situation, and thankfully we are talking through it, though I will honestly say it was one of the hardest things I've ever done.

4) Is there ANY reason why I may want to consider going to a sperm bank and having my sperm frozen? I did not find anything that stated whether HSV can cause fertility issues or birth defects by effecting sperm. I know this seems like an odd question, but it is very important to me to have kids that are mine, and able to lead normal lives.

That is all I have for now, I'm sure I will come up with more, but thank you for having this forum, it has been SO helpful, and has given my much comfort in an uncomfortable time.

you definitely need to go and get some confirmatory testing done. odds are you do have a false positive so it's well worth the additional testing.

betsy

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ASHA Moderator

Ok, sorry it took me so long to get back I have been out of the country for a LONG time. BUT, i got retested, and my results turned around. My first test my IgG came back at 1.19, my IgM came back negative, but the lab did not give me a value.

THIS time, my IgG from HerpesSelect came back at .47, but my IgM came ack at 1.55... I am happy the IgG went down below 1.1, but am conused as to why my IgM would then go up, I was under the impression IgM would mean recent exposure, and then as IgM lowers, IgG goes up...

Thoughts?

the igm herpes test is a greatly flawed test and we never recommend it being done. totally disregard your igm results. your igg is negative which confirms that your first was a false positive.

betsy

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ASHA Moderator