Is An HSV-2 IgM Antibodies Blood Test Conclusive 10 Days Post Exposure?

Posted on Sat, 13 Jun 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 13 Jun 2015 Answered on

Mon, 29 Jun 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : is 0.86 on an igm hsv2 blood test at 10 weeks post possible exposure reliable or is this too close to 9? should I retake this test?

Answered by Dr. Indu Kumar (27 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
I don't think you need repeat test.

Detailed Answer:
Hello

IgM test is advised to screen for recent exposure to the herpes simplex virus. IgM antibodies usually appear shortly after infection.IgM antibodies typically begin to appear at 5-10 days after infection and it lasts up to few months.

Antibody level 0.89 or less is considered as negative and it is not significant.
Since your value is 0.86,it is negative.
However,findings also need clinical correlation.
I don't think you need repeat test.

Get well soon.
Hope I have answered your question.
Further queries are most welcome

Take Care
Dr.Indu XXXXXXX

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Indu Kumar (8 minutes later)

I want to also say that I've never had an outbreak. just worried. someone used spit as lubrication to my vulva, ten weeks later exactly I had an hsv2 blood test.

Is that a highly likely way of transmission?

Thank you for all your help.

Answered by Dr. Indu Kumar (40 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Most likely,you are safe.

Detailed Answer:
Hello

You don't worry at all.Findings are negative.
You can't get HSV by mentioned way.
It is good that you don't have lesions/symptoms.

Most likely you are safe.

Get well soon.
Further queries are most welcome.
Please rate my answer if you are satisfied.

Take Care
Dr.Indu XXXXXXX

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar