High IgG result for HSV2, but no symptoms – is it worth getting a WB?

[Stheffie]

Hi Terri,

First, I would like to thank you for all your expertise and work that you do, it is greatly appreciated!

I (female, 22 years old) just recently tested positive for both HSV1 and 2 through a 10-panel STD test through Quest on 1/5/22. My IgG index values were:

HSV1: 3.00
HSV2: 5.86

As far as I know, I have never had a cold sore, nor any lesions, sores, any other outbreak symptoms etc. on my genital region. I have had several sexual partners (all male, some unprotected, which I admit is my own fault), but most were virgins, and most of those that weren’t had negative blood tests for Herpes that were performed recently before I was with them. Of course, the possibility still exists as it only takes one person, but I am hoping that my lack of symptoms is a good sign (I know asymptomatic HSV exists, however, so I am trying not to get my hopes up).

I know my HSV1 value is within the false positive range of 1.00-3.50, but I am primarily concerned with HSV2. I recognize that is is rather high. I am heavily considering a Western Blot test as I would just like to know for sure whether or not I have it, so I am planning on scheduling a video consultation soon. My partner broke up with me over my results, so I have been distraught, and am trying to see if there is any hope for my situation.

I have had chickenpox maybe about a decade ago (I don’t think this would impact an IgG test, but I wanted to include it anyway). I also heard that HSV1 results might impact HSV2, but I don’t know if that’s true – or, if it is, to what extent they do.

My questions are:
1. Do you think it is “unrealistic” for me to expect a negative result on the Western Blot test, with a “high” IgG result for HSV2, but with no symptoms?
2. Should I seek out IgG retests to see if anything changes?

Thank you so much in advance!

[Terri Warren]

My questions are:
1. Do you think it is “unrealistic” for me to expect a negative result on the Western Blot test, with a “high” IgG result for HSV2, but with no symptoms?
I don’t think there is a high chance that this will be negative on the blot but certainly I have seen false positives at this level and much higher. Since this is a lifelong diagnosis, if there is any question, I would recommend that you do the blot, if you can afford it.

2. Should I seek out IgG retests to see if anything changes?
no

Terri

[Stheffie]

Hi Terri,

First, thank you dearly for your quick response!

Second, I come with good news. My second-to-most recent sexual partner just informed me they tested negative for HSV2 (and this was beyond the 12-16 weeks window). This would mark the fourth negative HSV2 result from my previous partners thus far, which, along with an absence of symptoms from my partners, and from/on myself (I hope) is a good sign.

I have been trying to set up a video consultation through you for a WB, but I don’t see any available dates. Do you happen to have any availability for tomorrow, 1/9/2023, or is your earliest availability next Tuesday, 1/17/2023?

Thank you dearly in advance!

[Terri Warren]

We are in Asia with only intermittent internet access. I think I have appointments still open on the 25th,but not certain.

It is good news that those partners continue to show up negative, for sure!

Terri

• This reply was modified 2 months, 1 week ago by Terri Warren.

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