Low Positive HSV 2… Please help

[K88]

Good Evening Terri

I am a 27 year old female. I recently went to the doctor for a routine physical and asked for an STD test since I had a new partner. I was shocked when I received the results:

HSV 1 IgG 2.31
HSV 2 IgG 1.59

I have never had a cold sore in my entire life and have never felt anything strange in my gential region. I freaked out and requested to be re-tested 2 weeks later. My doctor only tested for HSV2.

The results from the 2nd test were:

HSV 2 IgG 1.63 (only slightly higher from the first time).

I immediatley began researching on the internet and found that the anything under a 3.5 IgG could be a false postive. I requested a Western Blot from my doctor in order to calm my nerves. She refused to give it to me, stating that 2 false positives are very unlikely.

I let my partner know about my results and suggestes that he be tested as well. He called me today and informed me that he had gotten his results back and he tested NEGATIVE for HSV 2.

He and I have been intimate for the past 6 months, and to be honest, most of the time it has been unprotected (I know, probably not the smartest decision). I read that the incubation period for the HS virus is 4 months, therefore does his testing negative mean that I could have 2 false positives?

My questions are as follows:

1. My HSV IgG levels are quite low (equivolcal being 1.09), could these truly be a false positive?

2. If he tested negative for HSV 2, and we have been together for over 6 months now, does that mean I could possibly be negative as well?

3. Do you recommend a Western Blot? My doctor suggested waiting 3 months to be retested, therefore should I wait and retest before having a Western Blot? But she will not give me a WBlot.

I am truly freaking out knowing that this could be a possibility. I just want some peace of mind, and I dont know if I will be able to keep going for 3 more months not being sure one way or another. Any help would be appreciated. Thank you.

[Terri Warren]

Clearly, your doctor and I are NOT on the same page.

1. My HSV IgG levels are quite low (equivolcal being 1.09), could these truly be a false positive?

There is a 55% chance that your HSV 2 value is a false positive. You most certainly need a herpes western blot. Our clinic can order that for you to be drawn at a lab where you live.

2. If he tested negative for HSV 2, and we have been together for over 6 months now, does that mean I could possibly be negative as well?

You statistically are most likely negative as well.

3. Do you recommend a Western Blot? My doctor suggested waiting 3 months to be retested, therefore should I wait and retest before having a Western Blot? But she will not give me a WBlot.

There is no point in waiting three months. You are having sex with someone who is negative for three months – what is the point? You would have to pay for the western blot yourself but if you really want to know if you have herpes, wouldn’t it be worth paying for it? Our arrangement with Quest labs does not allow patient or insurance billing.

Terri

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