Herpes Simplex Virus 1 (IgG), Type-Specific Antibody (HerpeSelect®)

The following is a list of what is included in the item above. Click the test(s) below to view what biomarkers are measured along with an explanation of what the biomarker is measuring.

Also known as: Herpes Simplex Virus 1 IgG TypeSpecific Antibody HerpeSelect

Hsv 1 IgG Type Specific

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The Herpes Simplex Virus 1 (IgG), Type-Specific Antibody (HerpeSelect®) test contains 1 test with 1 biomarker.

Brief Description: The HerpeSelect® Type-Specific Herpes Simplex Virus 1 (HSV-1) IgG Antibody test is a laboratory assay used to detect the presence of type-specific IgG antibodies to the herpes simplex virus type 1 in a patient's blood serum. The test is designed to differentiate between past infections of HSV-1 and HSV-2, given the immunological similarities between the two viruses.

Also Known As: Herpes Simplex Virus 1 IgG Type-Specific Antibodies Test, Herpes Test, Herpes 1 Test, Herpes IgG Test, Herpes 1 IgG Test

Collection Method: Blood Draw            

Specimen Type: Serum

Test Preparation: No preparation required

When and Why a HerpeSelect® Type-Specific Herpes Simplex Virus 1 IgG Antibody Test May Be Ordered

A healthcare provider may order this test in the following scenarios:

  • Symptomatic Presentation: When a patient presents with oral lesions or ulcers that suggest an HSV-1 infection, particularly if the lesions are recurrent.

  • Partner Exposure: If an individual's sexual partner has been diagnosed with herpes, even if the individual has no symptoms.

  • Before Starting a New Relationship: Some people choose to be tested before starting a new sexual relationship, especially if they or their partner have had previous partners.

  • Pregnancy: Pregnant women with known herpes or whose partners have herpes might be tested to assess the risk of neonatal herpes.

What the HerpeSelect® Type-Specific Herpes Simplex Virus 1 IgG Antibody Test Checks For

This test detects the presence of type-specific IgG antibodies against HSV-1 in the blood. These antibodies typically develop a few weeks after infection and remain for life. The presence of IgG antibodies indicates a past infection with HSV-1.

Other Lab Tests Ordered Alongside HerpeSelect® Type-Specific Herpes Simplex Virus 1 IgG Antibody Test

When an HSV-1 IgG test is ordered, it's often part of a broader evaluation of herpesvirus infections and related conditions. Here are some tests commonly ordered alongside it:

  1. Herpes Simplex Virus 2 (HSV-2) IgG Type-Specific Antibody Test:

    • Purpose: To specifically detect antibodies to HSV-2, the virus most commonly associated with genital herpes.
    • Why Is It Ordered: To differentiate between oral and genital herpes infections, as HSV-2 is more commonly associated with genital herpes.

  2. Complete Blood Count (CBC) with Differential:

    • Purpose: To evaluate overall blood health.
    • Why Is It Ordered: To assess for any signs of infection or other hematological abnormalities, especially in cases of severe or disseminated herpes infection.

  3. Syphilis Testing:

    • Purpose: To screen for syphilis, another sexually transmitted infection.
    • Why Is It Ordered: Because sexual activity can transmit multiple infections, a comprehensive STI screening is often recommended.

  4. Urinalysis:

    • Purpose: To analyze various components of urine.
    • Why Is It Ordered: In cases of genital herpes, to check for the presence of blood or other abnormalities that might be associated with herpes infection.

  5. Liver Function Test:

    • Purpose: To assess liver health.
    • Why Is It Ordered: In rare cases, severe herpes infections can affect liver function, particularly in neonatal herpes or disseminated infections.

These tests, when ordered alongside a Herpes Simplex Virus 1 IgG Type-Specific Antibody test, provide a comprehensive evaluation of herpesvirus infection status and its potential implications. They are important for diagnosing the specific type of herpes infection, assessing the risk of other sexually transmitted infections, and guiding appropriate treatment and management. The specific combination of tests will depend on the individual’s symptoms, sexual history, and clinical presentation.

Conditions or Diseases that Require a HerpeSelect® Type-Specific Herpes Simplex Virus 1 IgG Antibody Test

The main condition associated with the HerpeSelect® HSV-1 IgG test is:

  • Oral Herpes: Caused primarily by HSV-1, it is characterized by cold sores or fever blisters around the mouth.

Usage of Results from HerpeSelect® Type-Specific Herpes Simplex Virus 1 IgG Antibody Test by Health Care Providers

Healthcare providers use the results from the HerpeSelect® HSV-1 IgG test to:

  • Diagnose Past HSV-1 Infection: A positive test indicates that the patient has been infected with HSV-1 at some point in the past.

  • Differentiate Between HSV Types: Since HSV-1 and HSV-2 can cause similar symptoms, type-specific tests help differentiate the type of herpes causing the symptoms.

  • Counsel Patients: Knowledge of HSV-1 status can help in providing appropriate counseling on recurrence, transmission risks, and preventive measures.

To conclude, the HerpeSelect® Type-Specific HSV-1 IgG Antibody test plays a crucial role in the diagnosis and management of HSV-1 infections, providing clear insights into past exposure and aiding in clinical decision-making.

Most Common Questions About the HerpeSelect® Type-Specific Herpes Simplex Virus 1 (HSV-1) IgG Antibody test:

Purpose and Clinical Indications for the HerpeSelect® Type-Specific Herpes Simplex Virus 1 IgG Antibody Test

Why is the HerpeSelect® Type-Specific Herpes Simplex Virus 1 IgG Antibody test ordered?

The HerpeSelect® Type-Specific Herpes Simplex Virus 1 IgG Antibody test is primarily ordered to determine if an individual has been previously exposed to herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). The presence of IgG antibodies specific to HSV-1 indicates a past or established infection.

How can the HerpeSelect® Type-Specific Herpes Simplex Virus 1 IgG Antibody test aid in diagnosing oral herpes?

The test identifies the presence of IgG antibodies specific to HSV-1, which is the primary cause of oral herpes. A positive result suggests a past or established infection, helping healthcare professionals diagnose and differentiate between oral and genital herpes, as HSV-2 primarily causes the latter.

Interpretation of Results

What do positive results in the HerpeSelect® Type-Specific Herpes Simplex Virus 1 IgG Antibody test indicate?

A positive result indicates the presence of antibodies specific to HSV-1, suggesting that the individual has been exposed to the virus in the past and has developed an immune response. This typically means that they have or had oral herpes, even if they haven't exhibited symptoms.

If the HerpeSelect® Type-Specific Herpes Simplex Virus 1 IgG Antibody test is negative, does it mean I've never been exposed to HSV-1?

A negative result typically means that you have not been exposed to HSV-1 or that your body has not yet produced detectable levels of antibodies. However, it's important to note that antibodies might take several weeks to months to develop post-exposure. Therefore, if the exposure was recent, retesting might be recommended.

Implications and Medical Management

How can the results of the HerpeSelect® Type-Specific Herpes Simplex Virus 1 IgG Antibody test influence treatment decisions?

If the test results confirm the presence of HSV-1 antibodies and the patient has symptoms of oral herpes, antiviral medications may be prescribed to manage outbreaks or reduce their frequency. In asymptomatic patients, the test result primarily serves as an informational tool, and specific treatment may not be necessary.

What preventive measures can someone take if they test positive for HSV-1 using the HerpeSelect® Type-Specific Herpes Simplex Virus 1 IgG Antibody test?

Individuals who test positive should be educated about the contagious nature of HSV-1, even if they don't have symptoms. They should avoid close personal contact, like kissing, during outbreaks, and be cautious about sharing personal items like lip balm. Using sunblock can prevent sunburn-triggered outbreaks, and antiviral medications can reduce the frequency and severity of outbreaks.

Test Specifics

What distinguishes the HerpeSelect® Type-Specific Herpes Simplex Virus 1 IgG Antibody test from other herpes tests?

The HerpeSelect® test is type-specific, meaning it can differentiate between HSV-1 and HSV-2 antibodies. This specificity is crucial for accurate diagnosis since HSV-1 primarily causes oral herpes and HSV-2 causes genital herpes. Other tests might detect herpes antibodies but might not differentiate between the two types.

Why might a doctor recommend the HerpeSelect® Type-Specific Herpes Simplex Virus 1 IgG Antibody test over other herpes tests?

The ability to specifically diagnose HSV-1 is crucial when a patient presents with herpes-like symptoms but is unsure of the type. Since the management and implications differ for oral and genital herpes, identifying the specific type can guide treatment and counseling decisions.

We advise having your results reviewed by a licensed medical healthcare professional for proper interpretation of your results.

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