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Doctor insights on: How Long Does A Herpes Blood Test Take

2-3 weeks: The serologic tests are still not altogether reliable. Most folks with antibodies against herpes 2 do have genital herpes. Many people with antibodies against herpes 1 have never had fever blisters but these people do seem immune to primary infection.

<2 weeks: It usually take1-2 weeks for a healthy immune system to produce IgM anti-bodies to a viral infection. There are 2 types of herpes simplex 1 and 2, so both tests are available. If a patient has IgG herpes antibodies then the patient has already been exposed 'some time ago.' hope that helps.

Antibody Aging: It can take six to twenty four weeks. There is an early antibody that can be tested as well and that is an igm antibody.

False pos can occur: The standard blood tests for herpes simplex virus (HSV) are not perfect; false positive results can occur. The strength of the result -- i.e. the optical density ratio (also called ELISA ratio) -- is important in distinguishing true positive from false psotive results. Results usually are available in 2-5 days, but it varies a lot from one lab to another.

History is key: Without a sore or a typical herpes lesion, I wouldn't even believe a positive blood test as evidence that you're clinically ill with herpes II. The labs aren't 100% for either strain.

2 weeks: 2 weeks is the likely. Of time for to show up in a blood test however you probably have anothrr issue!

Why?: The blood test for herpes simplex is not really useful in reflecting whether someone will have overt lesions or how often.

Usually 2 to 3 weeks: Sometimes 3 months. Be sure to differentiate type 1 from type 2. Most people have no symptoms and will not know they have it until the blood test shows it. If there are symptoms, the blood test will be negative at first. Most people become positive to type 1 as children. If there is primary (1st time) infection, the diagnosis is made by exam and culture.

Perineum: Simple cut in the perineum possibly related to shaving but no obvious infection redness or drainage therefore no need for further workup or antibiotics unless it worsens over the next few weeks

No, don't: Antibodies to genital herpes do not mean that you have an active infection. Frequently, old serological tests cannot distinguish between hsv1 and 2. Its a possibility that you have an infection that is silent and can transmit virus. So, be cautious and use protection during intercourse.

Valacyclovir: There is another drug called Valacyclovir you can take once a day for suppression. There is even a program to get it for free if you cannot afford it, based on income in the USA, not sure about Mexico. Talk with your MD.

It depends: Valtrex (valacyclovir) is to prevent outbreaks to protect you from them and your sex partner. You may still be infectious even when there are no symptoms of an outbreak yet. If you have been monogamous, the same sex partner, it may not be necessary to take it. Have them tested and discuss with your doctor. If you are abstinent, no, you don't need to take it, realizing you could have an outbreak.

Depends: If the exposure is within a couple of weeks, IgM would be the test to get. On the other hand, there is no harm if getting IgG which would indicate exposure months or years ago. Unfortunately an infected person, even in the absence of symptoms, may infect other people. Until this situation has been settled, insist on condom use.

You: You are right, it could represent an allergic reaction or it could be from herpes. A type of a severe allergic reaction called stephen johnson syndrome can cause lesions (sores) on your mouth. Please be seen immediately and be evaluated for this. If you are having itching, any shortness of breath, nausea or vomiting, or rash then you need to be seen as an emergency.

Immune system: Immune system is keeping the virus non expressive (dormant).

Depends: When a person initially contracts herpes, the blood test will be negative. After the body has mounted an immune response, which may take 6 to 8 weeks, the blood test will become positive and will always be positive.

See your doctor: Your question was not clear, however, if you think you have herpes, it would be useful to see your doctor, especially if you have genital herpes so that you may get tested for other sexually transmitted diseases.

Herpes Testing: It is way too early to be tested from that possible exposure. But, with the new herpes tests you should know your status. We now know that 90% of those with herpes do not have sores and often do not know that they may be infected. Good 'early' and 'aged' antibody testing for this exposure would be best at about six weeks or so.

Not to worry: Cold sores are caused by herpes virus but the majority of people in the us have been infected & many never get cold sores (even though once you get it it stays in your body). Your test shows you were got herpes long ago but have no sign of recent exposure. You can't catch it from your girlfriend because you already have it. However, she could spread it to your genital region so take precautions!

Why?: It's easy to get a herpes blood test--your doctor has just checks the hsv-2 igg box on the order form. There's no need to see an infectious disease doctor, as much as we love your business. However, the test will only tell you whether you have the virus, not whether you need treatment. We only people who have outbreaks, not people with a positive test. Why get tested? It's not a standard test.