HSV Types 1 & 2 - IgG This test is an antibody test for the Herpes Simplex Virus. This test is type specific, but it is impossible to conclusively state where any particular infection is located on the body, absent of any symptoms. It is also impossible to determine how long the virus has been present in the body. HSV Types 1 & 2 - IgM This particular test is not type specific. It can only determine whether or not the antibodies that are typically produced shortly after the initial contact with HSV are present.

HSV-1 (Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1)

HSV-1 is typically an infection of the mouth and lips but can be transmitted to the genitals. The majority of the population suffers from HSV-1 infection and many contract the virus when they are children. Most individuals have no signs or symptoms from an HSV-1 infection. However, when signs do occur, they typically appear as one or more blisters on or around the mouth and lips. These infections are commonly called "fever blisters" or "cold sores". The blisters usually break, leaving tender ulcers that may take two to four weeks to heal.

HSV-2 (Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2)

HSV-2 is typically an infection of the genitals but can be transmitted to the mouth or lips. Genital HSV-2 infection is more common in women (25%) than in men (20%). Transmission can occur from an infected partner who is not having an outbreak at the time of contact and may not know he or she is infected. Most individuals with HSV-2 infection have no symptoms. However, some people have a mild outbreak they may not notice or they mistake for insect bites or another skin condition. When symptoms do occur, they appear as one or more blisters on or around the genitals. The blisters usually break, leaving tender ulcers that may take two to four weeks to heal.