[Question #12292] Conflicting HSV 2 IgG test results
8 months ago
|
Early 2023, I had diffuse symptoms in my pelvic and upper thigh region that persisted for several weeks (UTI symptoms - frequent and painful urination but negative cultures, flu-like skin sensitivity, labia feeling raw and red, persistent constipation, difficulty initiating urine stream). I did not have any lesions, but my doctor ordered HSV testing given that I was in a new sexual relationship. In 02/24/23, I had a positive HSV 2 IgG test result with an index reading of 2.85. I was prescribed Acyclovir 800mg/day which I took religiously. I retested on 07/25/24 and had a negative HSV 2 IgG result with an index reading of 0. I assumed the Acyclovir was working miracles. My new PCP advised me to stop taking Acyclovir on 11/5/24 given that I haven't experienced any lesions. I complied. I don't have a current sexual partner, but I am confused on what to disclose to a future partner. Was the first test a false positive based upon the negative results of the second test? I'm grateful for any clarity you can offer on how to interpret these results. I don't want to cause any harm but also don't want to disclose inaccurate (and stigmatizing) information. Thank you.
![]() |
Terri Warren, RN, Nurse Practitioner
8 months ago
|
We know there are false positives on the IgG test and it is possible that you had one. However, I have never seen zero as a result from an IgG test in my entire 40 year career so I'm confused about that. Normally, there is some value to the result, so that is confusing. The acyclovir didn't take away herpes if you have/had herpes.
If you really want to know if you have HSV 2 or not, and have no lesions to swab, then the herpes western blot done only at the University of Washington is what you need. You can work with your own provider to get this or I can help you westoverheights.com. This test has no false positives and can be relied upon.
Terri
---
8 months ago
|
Thank you, Terri. I rechecked the results, and you are correct. I misinterpreted the negative result to mean zero, but it states that the index was less than 0.90, prompting the negative result. (I have attempted to upload the image of the test results. Not sure if it uploaded or not.) Given this information, do you still recommend the western blot test, or can I trust the negative IgG test result? Thank you!
![]() |
Terri Warren, RN, Nurse Practitioner
8 months ago
|
I think you can trust the negative, with a high degree of certainty. The issue is false positives, more than false negatives.
Terri
---