[Question #11346] I tested positive for HSV1&2 and my husband only tested positive for HSV1
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15 months ago
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I have been married for 7 years and I have two kids (1&6 years). I started having genital blisters when I was pregnant with my second child. I tested positive for Herpes. We then tested for the type of Herpes.I tested IGG positive for Type 1 and 2, my IGM was negative. My husband tested and he only tested positive for type 1. I have a chronic condition (epilepsy). My husband is the only man I have had unprotected sex with. He has always had flu blisters on his mouth from when we met. How can I be testing IGG positive for both types but my husband only type 1?. I am also having the genital blisters every month for the past year. Please help me. My marriage is suffering because of this.
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Terri Warren, RN, Nurse Practitioner
15 months ago
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When you say that you tested positive for HSV, did you test positive from a swab test? If yes, was the positive swab typed? You state that you are positive for HSV 1 and 2 through IgG testing. There are many false positives from the IgG test for HSV 2. If you've never had unprotected sex with anyone but your husband, then one of two things is possible: the IgG test missed an HSV 2 infection in him, or two, you have a false positive on the HSV 2 IgG test (more likely). What is the index value associated with your positive IgG for HSV 2?
Terri
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15 months ago
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Hi Terri
I have never had a swab done on the actual blister. Both tests that I did a blood sample was drawn. I believe they tested antibodies. I have not received any advice from my doctor about doing a different test. Please advise on the kind of testing that I need to do that will give me more accurate results. I did not see any index value on my results. What does the index value mean?. Can I go back to the lab and request for it?. Please explain what the different values mean. I really need to get better answers. After seeing a couple of doctors no one ever mentioned that there is a possibility to do other tests and they false positives do exist. I was only made aware after I heard an interview where Dr Hunter mentioned it. This is how I learned about ask experts.
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Terri Warren, RN, Nurse Practitioner
15 months ago
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Most times, with an IgG test, there are numbers associated with the positive result - sometimes, the lab doesn't share them or they use a test that doesn't give them. Low numbers for HSV require confirmation by another test and the best one if the western blot done only at the University of Washington though it can be sent to them from anywhere. You can order the kit required by calling 206-685-6066 and you can work with you own doctor to do this or you can work with me at westoverheights.com. The CDC and FDA both warn of false positives on the HSV 2 test.
Terri
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15 months ago
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Hi Terri
Thank you so much for the information shared. I have checked the website and I will definitely be working with you.
Regarding the monthly genital blisters that I keep getting. Can you maybe give me some advice on how to reduce the number of breakouts. My doctor usually prescribes Anviro 500, i usually take one tablet three times a day for five days.
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Terri Warren, RN, Nurse Practitioner
15 months ago
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Before you treat with the next outbreak, be sure to have a PCR swab done of the blister so we can find out 1) if it is HSV and 2) what type. Be certain typing is ordered. If you have monthly recurrences of herpes, you should consider being on daily suppressive therapy, not treating outbreaks as they come up.
Terri
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