• Herpes Simplex Virus 1 IgG - HSV-1 IgG: Indicates a past exposure or a long-term, latent infection. Once positive, it generally remains positive for life.
• Herpes Simplex Virus 1 IgM - HSV-1 IgM: Indicates a recent or active primary infection, typically presenting as oral cold sores, though it can occasionally cause genital sores.
• Herpes Simplex Virus 2 IgG - HSV-2 IgG: Confirms a well-established, chronic HSV-2 infection, which is the primary cause of recurrent genital herpes.
• Herpes Simplex Virus 2 IgM - HSV-2 IgM: Suggests an acute, newly acquired genital herpes infection.

Why does the report take 24 hours?

ELISA testing involves multiple precise incubation, washing, and enzyme-binding stages that require a 24-hour cycle to provide accurate quantitative index values.

What is the difference between HSV-1 and HSV-2?

HSV-1 usually causes oral cold sores, while HSV-2 is the primary cause of genital herpes, though either virus can infect either location.

Does an IgG positive result mean I have an active outbreak right now?

No. An IgG positive result simply means you have carried the virus in your system for at least a few weeks or years; it stays positive even when you have no symptoms.

Can a person spread herpes if they don't have any visible sores?

Yes. This is called "asymptomatic shedding," where the virus can actively replicate on the skin surface without causing visible blisters.

What does an "Equivocal" or "Borderline" result mean?

It means your antibody levels are in a gray zone. This usually happens if the infection is very early, and the lab will recommend repeating the test in 2–3 weeks.

Is herpes curable?

There is no permanent cure to clear the virus from nerve tissues, but highly effective antiviral medications can fully suppress outbreaks and drastically lower transmission risks.

Why should pregnant women take this panel?

An active herpes infection during labor can be dangerous to the baby. Knowing the antibody status helps doctors plan safe delivery protocols.

Can I take this test while using skin creams for cold sores?

Yes, topical over-the-counter creams will not alter the systemic blood antibody levels measured by this test.

What triggers a dormant herpes virus to reactivate?

Common triggers include physical stress, emotional anxiety, illness, low immunity, extreme sunlight, or hormonal changes.

Can I drink water before my blood draw?

Yes, plain water is recommended to keep your veins well-hydrated for an easy collection.

How long after exposure do antibodies appear?

IgM appears within 1–2 weeks, while the more permanent IgG antibodies usually take 4 to 12 weeks to build up to detectable levels.

Does a positive HSV-1 result mean I have an STD?

Not necessarily. The vast majority of adults acquire HSV-1 during early childhood through non-sexual contact, such as sharing utensils or a kiss from a relative.

Is this test done from a blister swab or blood?

This specific screen is performed on a blood sample to check your body's overall immune system memory.

What if my IgM is positive but my IgG is negative?

This strongly indicates a very fresh, primary infection that your immune system has just started fighting.

Is my herpes screening record kept confidential?

Absolutely. At Dr. Patho Labs and Diagnostics, all sexual health and viral screenings are handled with strict privacy and secure data encryption protocols.