[Question #8509] HSV1
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43 months ago
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I have had HSV1 (2 outbreaks on genitals) for over a year now, but I have taken 5 IGG tests over that time frame that still come back negative. Do I have antibodies for the virus in my body that are just undetectable levels? Will I be able to carry a baby and protect them from contracting the virus or do I not have any antibodies to protect a baby during pregnancy? Also, why would I never develop detectable antibody levels while others do? Thank you.
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Terri Warren, RN, Nurse Practitioner
43 months ago
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I'm so sorry we are traveling and had no access to posts. Please forgive me!
Were you swab tested to determine that your infection was HSV 1? Is that how you know?
The IgG test for HSV 1 misses 30% of HSV 1 infections and in my experience, the IgG test misses 30% of infections and again, in my experience, once the IgG test misses an infection once, it misses it multiple times. We know this by comparing results from the IgG test and herpes western blot tests, the gold standard for herpes diagnosis.
Terri
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42 months ago
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Hi yes I had a swab test that came back positive for HSV1. I plan on getting a western blot test done since the IGGs keep coming back negative. Regardless of the negative IGG tests, my body must have developed antibodies for HSV1 by now, right? I have had it for over a year and a half. It would just be nice for peace of mind to know that my body is working properly. Thank you
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Terri Warren, RN, Nurse Practitioner
42 months ago
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Yes, The IgG test misses 30% of HSV 1 infections, compared to the western blot, as I mentioned above. I would believe the swab test and save your money. I think your body is working just fine. But if you want to do the blot, that's fine.
Terri
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