Herpes Simplex Virus 1 And 2 DNA PCR - Qualitative
Understanding Herpes Simplex Virus 1 And 2 DNA PCR - Qualitative
What is Herpes Simplex Virus 1 And 2 DNA PCR - Qualitative?
The Herpes Simplex Virus 1 And 2 DNA PCR - Qualitative test is done to detect the genetic material (DNA) of herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and type 2 (HSV-2) in the blood sample. It confirms an active infection and differentiates between HSV types.
Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is a lifelong infection transmitted through direct contact with oral/genital secretions. HSV-1 typically causes oral herpes, while HSV-2 causes genital herpes, though either can infect both areas.
The Herpes Simplex Virus 1 And 2 DNA PCR - Qualitative uses PCR to identify HSV DNA in blood samples, offering high precision for active infections.
This test is often performed when an individual exhibits symptoms suggestive of a herpes infection, such as sores or blisters around the mouth or genital area, recurring blisters or ulcers, pain during urination, unusual discharge from the urethra and vagina, fever, body aches, sore throat, etc. It may also be done as a part of routine screenings for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or pre-pregnancy check-ups, as HSV can be transmitted to the baby during childbirth (neonatal herpes).
A positive result means that HSV DNA has been found, confirming an active infection. A negative result means that no viral DNA was detected in the sample at the time of testing. This helps the doctor understand the condition better and decide the best course of treatment or preventive steps if needed.
No specific preparation is needed to get the Herpes Simplex Virus 1 And 2 DNA PCR - Qualitative test done. Eat and drink normally before the test. However, a clinical history is required, and a clinician's number is needed for notification during the test procedure.
Talk to the doctor about specific test results. Narrate the complete medical history and symptoms to help them correlate the clinical and laboratory findings and formulate an treatment plan.
Please note: This is an outsourced test. The sample for this test is collected by TATA 1MG and processed at a NABL accredited partnered lab.
What is Herpes Simplex Virus 1 And 2 DNA PCR - Qualitative used for?
The Herpes Simplex Virus 1 And 2 DNA PCR - Qualitative test is done:
- To confirm an active HSV infection in people showing symptoms like sores or blisters.
- To detect the presence of the virus in people who may have been recently exposed.
- To check for HSV in pregnant women to reduce the risk of passing the virus to the baby.
- In newborns showing signs of neonatal herpes infection.
- To guide appropriate treatment decisions and monitor the effectiveness of antiviral therapy.
What does Herpes Simplex Virus 1 And 2 DNA PCR - Qualitative measure?
The Herpes Simplex Virus 1 And 2 DNA PCR - Qualitative test measures the presence of herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) DNA and Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 (HSV-2) DNA in the blood sample. By detecting the genetic material (DNA) of the virus, this test tells whether the virus is currently active in the body.
Interpreting Herpes Simplex Virus 1 And 2 DNA PCR - Qualitative results
Interpretations
- The presence of HSV1 and HSV2 DNA PCR indicate previous infection
- A significant increase in HSV IgG antibodies , measured by comparing acute samples, indicate and active or recent infection
- Negative antibody test results mean that it is unlikely that a person has been exposed to HSV
Frequently Asked Questions about Herpes Simplex Virus 1 And 2 DNA PCR - Qualitative
Q. What is the Herpes Simplex Virus 1 And 2 DNA PCR - Qualitative test?
Q. Do I need to fast before taking the Herpes Simplex Virus 1 And 2 DNA PCR - Qualitative test?
Q. Is there any risk associated with the Herpes Simplex Virus 1 And 2 DNA PCR - Qualitative test?
Q. What does the Herpes Simplex Virus 1 And 2 DNA PCR - Qualitative test detect?
Q. How is this test different from the HSV antibody test?
Q. What does a positive result mean?
Q. What precautions can help in preventing HSV infections?
Q. Can HSV-1 and HSV-2 coexist in an individual?
Q. How is herpes managed?
Q. How can I reduce the risk of transmission?
Q. Is there a vaccine for HSV?
Q. Can HSV affect pregnancy?
Q. How does Tata 1mg ensure accurate lab test results?
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References
- About Genital Herpes – CDC Basic Fact Sheet [Internet]. CDC; 20 Feb. 2024 [Accessed 16 Apr. 2025]. Available From: https://www.cdc.gov/herpes/about/?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/std/herpes/stdfact-herpes.htm
- Screening for Genital Herpes [Internet]. CDC; 20 Feb. 2024 [Accessed 16 Apr. 2025]. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/herpes/testing/?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/std/herpes/screening.htm
- Herpes simplex virus [Internet]. WHO; 05 Apr. 2023 [Accessed 16 Apr. 2025]. Available from: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/herpes-simplex-virus
- Kessler HH, Mühlbauer G, Rinner B, Stelzl E, Berger A, Dörr HW, Santner B, Marth E, Rabenau H. Detection of Herpes simplex virus DNA by real-time PCR. J Clin Microbiol. 2000 Jul;38(7):2638-42. [Accessed 16 Apr. 2025]. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC86985/
- Tada DG, Khandelwal N. Serum HSV-1 and 2 IgM in Sexually Transmitted Diseases - More for Screening Less for Diagnosis: An Evaluation of Clinical Manifestation. J Glob Infect Dis. 2012 Jul;4(3):S1-4. [Accessed 16 Apr. 2025]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3459440/
- Nath P, Kabir MA, Doust SK, Ray A. Diagnosis of Herpes Simplex Virus: Laboratory and Point-of-Care Techniques. Infect Dis Rep. 2021 Jun 2;13(2):518-539. [Accessed 16 Apr. 2025]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8293188/
- Sauerbrei A. Herpes Genitalis: Diagnosis, Treatment and Prevention. Geburtshilfe Frauenheilkd. 2016 Dec;76(12):1310-1317. [Accessed 16 Apr. 2025]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5177552/
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