Indications for Testing a Patient for HSV Antibodies

 

HSV antibodies to measure:

(1) Type 1 IgM

(2) Type 1 IgG

(3) Type 2 IgM

(4) Type 2 IgG

 

Indications for serologic testing:

(1) To distinguish primary from recurrent disease in a patient with positive viral testing (viral culture, PCR).

(2) To confirm a clinical diagnosis of HSV infection, especially when viral culture or PCR have been negative.

(3) To determine if a sexual partner of a patient with HSV is infected.

(4) To screen a patient with recurrent symptoms and negative urine cultures.

(5) As part of a workup for sexually transmitted disease (STD).

 

Additional situations to consider serologic testing for HSV:

(1) The patient is HIV positive.

(2) The patient is pregnant.