I AM TERRIFIED ABOUT MY RESULTS

[Laila3379]

I visited a PCP and my HSV-1 results were negative but my HSV-2 results were equivocal, I visited a GYN 2 weeks later and received the same result. I have an appointment in 2 more weeks with the PCP to retest. I am growing incredibly anxious. I can’t believe this. My results in the GYN was a 0.99 index. The herpes results at the PCP was 1.02 H . I see it is going down but I’m panicking. Please help me understand this.

[auntiejessi]

First, why did you test? Did you have symptoms? A known exposure? Just routine testing? When was your last possible exposure?

Were these IgG tests or IgM tests?

Assuming they were IgG tests, and you have had no symptoms, my guess is that they are nothing to worry about. You haven't even had a positive result. Most experts in the field feel that anything under a 3.5 needs to be confirmed, and that the guidelines should be adjusted, so you are well below that.

Your retest in a couple of weeks may give you the same result because it's the same kind of test. Some people just get that kind of result on the IgG test. If your PCP can do it, ask for a BioKit test. It's a different type of test. Call them today (or tomorrow, if they have already closed today) and see if they can get one. You can also order a Western Blot test, which is also a different type of test. There is a number on this page that your doctor can call to order the WB test - https://depts.washington.edu/herpes/pages/hsv_resources If it hasn't been 12 weeks since your last possible exposure, you should wait until then to test with the WB.

This forum is full of people who've had low positive results who end up negative. Don't panic. :)