HSV 2, IgG & IgM

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection (herpes) is a skin infection that may spread through sexual contact or skin-to-skin contact with an infected person. HSV-2 primarily causes genital herpes,which  is characterized by painful sores and blisters in the genital and anal area. 

The HSV 2, IgG & IgM test measures two types of antibodies: Immunoglobulin G (IgG) and Immunoglobulin M (IgM) produced as an immune response against HSV-2. IgM antibodies suggest a recent or acute infection, as they are produced early in the immune response and usually decline after a few months. IgG antibodies indicate past or chronic infection with the virus, as they typically develop after the initial infection and persist for life.

This test is often recommended when an individual exhibits symptoms suggestive of genital herpes, such as sores or blisters around genital and anal area, recurring blisters or ulcers, pain during urination, unusual discharge from the urethra and vagina, fever, body aches, etc. This test can also be done as part of routine screenings for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or pre-pregnancy check-ups, as HSV-2 can be transmitted to the baby during childbirth. 

No specific preparation is needed to get the HSV 2, IgG & IgM test done. You can eat and drink normally before the test. Talk to your doctor about your specific test results. Narrate your complete medical history and symptoms to help them correlate your clinical and laboratory findings and formulate your treatment plan.