False Negative for Herpeselect?

[Lee73]

I went to my doctor in October with a minor lesion at the base of my penis, and a non-type specific swab test came back positive for herpes.  I have not had any outbreaks or symptoms since, but I have a new partner and want to know which type I have because she's understandably concerned about infection.  I got a herpeselect test last month and it came back negative for both HSV1 and 2.   The results didn't list the numbers, however.

My doctor's advice hasn't been very consistent with what I've learned in this forum and other resources, so I'd like to get some outside advice. A few questions:
1. Is it possible for both the swab test and the blood test to be accurate, which would mean that I somehow cleared the virus?
2. Which test is more dependable?
3. What test can I get to confirm my diagnosis?

Thanks!

[auntiejessi]

Oh and its also quite possible that your doctor doesn't know how to read the tests.  If you get a copy, we can help sort that out for you.

Aj

[auntiejessi]

Hmmm I hate when this happens.

The herpeselect misses about 10% of hsv1 infections, so its possible you have that genitally.  The culture has very very low rates of false positives, so I would go with genital herpes type 1.

You can test again and see if it picks it up, and in the meantime, if you get another sore, get it cultured and typed within 24-48 hours of it appearing.

Aj