Herpes Simplex Virus (Hsv) Type 2 IgM Antibodies

Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) that causes painful blisters and sores filled with fluid. These bumps are painful to touch and ooze liquid under stress or pressure.

While HSV1 is for oral herpes, HSV2 affects the genital area by entering through skin abrasions or mucus membranes. These mucus glands are found in the nasal tract, the lining of the mouth, and the genital region. Hence, the virus primarily infects these areas.

The virus transmits through bodily fluids like saliva, semen, and vaginal secretions. HSV2 or genital herpes test helps in the early detection of the infection so that one can start the treatment before the condition becomes severe.

The herpes antibody test screens the blood sample and finds the presence of antibodies produced by the body against viral antigens. Furthermore, the herpes virus test also identifies the recurrence of the infection by the number of antibodies found in the blood.

The following signs and symptoms can indicate the viral infection:

• Blisters on penis, scrotum, buttocks, anus, or vagina 
• Sore throat
• Fever
• Tingling sensation in the affected area
• Headache and body ache 
• Ulcerative blisters (in severe cases) 
• Itching in the infected area
• Swelling in the lymph nodes

The herpes virus test can be taken if you are sexually active with a partner who currently has the infection or has a recent history of genital herpes.

You can also go for the herpes antibody test if you are pregnant or trying to conceive in the near future. This test is necessary for pregnant women to avoid postnatal complications. Additionally, babies born to mothers with active genital herpes infection may develop severe symptoms like blindness, brain damage, and death.

You may be having a dormant herpes virus infection that the herpes virus test can identify. Henceforth, the newborn babies are given appropriate medications to overcome the infection and to deliver the baby safely.

People who need to take the herpes antibody test to confirm or rule out the condition are:

• Those who have multiple sex partners
• People with same-sex partners
• Individuals whose partners may be infected with the virus
• Pregnant women who might have acquired the infection during or before pregnancy

The herpes antibody test does not detect the viral antigen directly. Instead, it identifies an antibody called IgM produced by the body in response to the viral infection. The period between the infection and the appearance of the symptoms may be 10 days long. Hence, taking the herpes virus test as soon as you suspect the infection is necessary. 

Medically reviewed by Dr. Surya Narayan Mohanty, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Apollo Hospitals Old Sainik School Road, Bhubaneswar

Frequently asked questions

What do the results of the herpes virus test mean?

A positive result for the herpes antibody test confirms the presence of the infection, while a negative result indicates the absence of the infection. However, an equivocal result means that the test could not detect the antibody's presence or absence.

What is the procedure for the herpes virus test?

The herpes virus test involves a simple procedure where a blood sample is collected. The service provider cleans the puncture area, injects the syringe into the veins, and cleans the area again to prevent infection. Furthermore, there is no special preparation required for the herpes virus test.

What precautions should you take before opting for the genital herpes test?

Since the genital herpes test is simple, it doesn’t require any particular precaution. However, you must inform your physician or doctor about your ongoing medications. Additionally, if you are taking herbal medicines, tonics, supplements, or drugs, your physician needs to know about them.

What if the infection becomes severe during pregnancy?

If the genital herpes test confirms the presence of infection during pregnancy, the doctors may take necessary steps to prevent the transmission of infection from the mother to the baby. In severe cases, when the birth canal is full of blisters, the doctor may even opt for a caesarean procedure rather than a standard delivery method.

What are some ways to prevent the infection?

Using physical barriers like a condom while indulging in sexual intercourse is one of the best ways to prevent the infection. Moreover, if you are in a long-term relationship with the same partner who has tested negative for the genital herpes test, you are less likely to have the infection.

Is genital herpes a common infection?

Yes. Genital herpes is a common infection caused by both HSV1 and HSV2 viruses. Nearly 10-30% of the world’s population suffers from this infection every year.