
Since this test detects the production of antibodies, which can take up to three months, it can give false negative results if it is done too early. The antibody test is done using a blood sample and is the most commonly performed test. Every antibody type is uniquely produced for a specific antigen, so the test can differentiate between the herpes 1 and herpes 2 viruses.
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A healthcare professional puts it under a microscope to look for cells specific to a herpes infection.Īntibody test: This blood test looks for the herpes antibody (protein) produced for the herpes antigen. Tzanck smear: A sample for this test is collected by scraping the herpes sore. The test is done using venous blood, a specimen collectedby swabbing the sore, or cerebrospinal fluid collected via a spinal tap. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test: This test looks for DNA of the herpes virus and distinguishes between the two common herpes virus types, HSV-1 and HSV-2. It is most accurate during the early stage of the outbreak when the sore has just formed. This test can distinguish between herpes 1 and 2. This is done to confirm a herpes diagnosis (the initial diagnosis is made clinically that is, based on visual examination). The collected specimen is observed in a laboratory to see if the virus multiplies and grows. Viral culture: This test is done using a swab of the herpes sore. Who should consider getting tested for herpes?Ĭenters for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This may lead to unnecessary financial and psychological issues. There is always a chance (up to 20%) of having false-positive test results (that is, the test indicates the presence of infection, but a person does not have it). There is a chance of a false-positive result is high.Though herpes increases the chance of HIV acquisition, early herpes diagnosis and treatment will not help to lower this risk. Testing will not reduce the chance of HIV acquisition.However, once an asymptomatic person gets a positive result, they may start to feel stigmatized and ashamed, which will significantly lower their quality of life. They are asymptomatic and have no psychological or physical issues. Nce) after learning about their herpes status.Ībout 90% of people are herpes positive, and the majority of them-up to 80% of them-are unaware of that fact.
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Testing will not change sexual behavior.Īccording to the CDC (Center of disease control and prevention), there is no proof of a herpes-positive person changing their sexual behavior (switching to pro.Herpes is a lifelong infection, and there is no change in treatment strategy or prognosis if someone is diagnosed early. Usually, screening tests are recommended when there is a high chance of a better outcome if a condition is diagnosed earlier. Early diagnosis will not change the disease prognosis.
