What is the HSV test for Herpes?
Herpes is a skin ailment caused by the HSV herpes simplex virus. HSV produces painful blisters or ulcers all over the body. Types of Herpes Simplex Virus
HSV-1 (Oral Herpes):
- Causes cold sores or blisters around the mouth.
- Transmitted through direct contact, such as sharing utensils.
HSV-2 (Genital Herpes):
- Causes blisters or sores on the genitals.
- Commonly spread through sexual contact.
Both HSV-1 and HSV-2 can be transmitted even when there are no visible symptoms, and outbreaks may recur periodically.
- The frequency and severity of outbreaks often decrease over time. Although herpes can cause discomfort, it rarely results in serious health complications.
- In exceptional cases, HSV can infect other body parts, such as the brain and spinal cord.
- Herpes can be passed from a mother to her newborn during childbirth, which can pose a life-threatening risk to the infant.
- Other terms used for herpes testing include herpes culture, herpes simplex viral culture, HSV-1 antibodies, HSV-2 antibodies, and HSV DNA testing.
Uses of HSV Testing
An HSV test may be used to:
- Diagnosis of HSV infection: Identify the cause of mouth or genital sores.
- Pregnancy-related testing: To ensure the safety of the mother and baby.
- Herpes simplex DNA test: To confirm the presence of the virus in severe or unusual cases.
What is the need for an HSV test?
The test is required when there are HSV symptoms in patients who do not have HSV symptoms; an HSV test may be required if:
- You have herpes symptoms, such as blisters or sores on your genitals or other body parts.
- Your sexual partner is infected with herpes.
- You're pregnant and have had a past herpes infection or signs of genital herpes. If you test positive during pregnancy for HSV, your baby may also require testing.
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Get A Second OpinionRisk factors for HSV infection:
HSV-2 may raise your chances of contracting HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STDs). If you have specific risk factors for STDs, you may require a test. You may be more vulnerable if you:
- Having several sexual partners.
- Have a partner who has HIV or another STD.
- Symptoms of brain or spinal cord infections like fever, stiff neck, or confusion, which may require urgent testing.
HSV can cause encephalitis or meningitis, which are life-threatening infections of the brain and spinal cord, in rare situations. If you have signs of a brain or spinal cord issue, you may require an HSV test. These are some indications:
- Fever
- Stiff neck
- Confusion
- Severe headache
- Sensitivity to light
What happens during an HSV test?
HSV testing is often performed through swabs, blood, or lumbar puncture. The sort of test you receive will be determined by your symptoms and medical history.
- A swab test involves a healthcare worker collecting fluid and cells from a herpes sore using a swab.
- A blood test involves a health care provider drawing a small amount of blood from a vein and a small quantity of blood will be collected in a test tube or vial. When the needle goes in or out, you may feel a slight sting.
- A lumbar puncture, also called a spinal tap, is only performed if your doctor suspects you have a brain or spinal cord infection. Following a spinal tap:
You will be instructed to lie on your side on an examination table.
A medical professional will clean your back and inject an anaesthetic into your skin to keep you comfortable during the process. Before this injection, your physician may apply numbing cream to your back.
Your physician will inject a small, hollow needle between two vertebrae in your lower spine after the region on your back is entirely numb.
A tiny volume of CSF fluid will be withdrawn for examination by your physician. this will take around five minutes.
After the treatment, your physician may instruct you to rest on your back for an hour or two. This might prevent you from getting a headache.
How to Prepare for an HSV Test?
- Swab Test/Blood Test: No special preparation is required.
- Lumbar Puncture: You may be asked to empty your bladder and bowels before the procedure.
Is there any risk in the test?
Swab Test:
There are no known risks associated with a swab test.
Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap):
You may have discomfort or tenderness in your back where the needle was put if you had a lumbar puncture. You might get a headache after the treatment.
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Book an AppointmentUnderstanding Your HSV Test Results
Your HSV test results will be either negative, commonly known as normal, or positive, also known as abnormal.
Negative/Normal:
- No herpes virus detected in the sample.
- If symptoms persist, retesting might be necessary as the virus could be dormant.
Positive/Abnormal:
- The herpes virus is present.
- Could indicate an active infection or a past exposure.
- Consult your doctor for treatment options to manage outbreaks.
