[Question #6757] HSV IgG Test

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65 months ago
I recently had some STD testing done at a clinic. I tested positive for HSV 1 (2.50 igg) and HSV 2 (1.46 igg). I had a retest done about a month later and the results were HSV 1 (3.12) and HSV2 (1.98). 
I have never had any symptoms in the genital area, and I practice safe sex and have for years. I think I was only tested once during my entire life for herpes via urine test over 10 years ago. 
I had a finger infection while working in Africa several years ago that visually could be consistent with a Herpatic Whitlow. My Doctor is saying not to make a big deal about the IgG results, and said they don't even rely that test for diagnosis. How can I figured out where I am actually infected, so I am not putting people at risk? I am very worried. 
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Terri Warren, RN, Nurse Practitioner
65 months ago
Your HSV 2 value is what we call a low positive.  The CDC says all people with your value (anywhere between 1.1 and 3.5)  needs a confirmatory test and the best is the herpes western blot.  You can work with your own provider to get this test from the University of Washington OR I can get this ordered for you through westoverheights.com  Your HSV 1 is likely to confirm as positive with your index value above 3 but half the population has HSV 1 so that could be expected.  Have you ever in your life had a cold sore on your lip or in your nose?  That would fit with an HSV 1 positive test. 

Terri
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