Synonyms: HSV
Related tests: Full blood count, AST, ALT
Clinical significance
Herpes simplex virus infections are the most common in humans. There are two serotypes of HSV, HSV1 and HSV2. HSV1 is generally associated with lesions of the lips, mouth and eye, while HSV2 causes sexually transmitted infections. Newborns can be infected during delivery.
During acute infection, specific class M antibodies (IgM) rise, followed by IgG, which remain for life. Because of the strong cross-reaction between HSV1 and HSV2, it is generally not possible to distinguish their IgM: when IgM is present, the type of IgG detected (anti-HSV1 or anti-HSV2) is decisive.
Clinical indications
Suspected infection, pre-delivery screening
Sample type
The patient must have a blood sample taken.
Preparation
You must fast for at least 8 hours; a small amount of water is allowed.
Notes
IgG absent, IgM absent: no exposure. If the clinical picture is uncertain, patients should be monitored over time.
IgG present, IgM absent: past infection.
IgG absent, IgM present: very early stage of infection.
IgG present, IgM present: acute or at least recent infection
Antibody levels may rise in patients infected with other viruses of the herpesvirus family because of cross-reactivity. Results in immunosuppressed patients must be interpreted with caution.