HSV-1 and HSV-2 Testing For Early Detection and Treatment of Herpes Virus

HSV-1 and HSV-2 Testing For Early Detection and Treatment of Herpes Virus

Herpes Simplex often referred to as Herpes are viruses that can spread from one individual to another through sexual contact. There are two types of herpes viruses – Herpes Type 1 or HSV-1 and Herpes Type 2 or HSV-2. The former affects the oral cavity while the latter affects the genitals.

How Herpes is Transmitted

HSV-1 is transmitted through oral secretions or skin sores by acts such as sharing objects like utensils or through kissing. HSV-2 spreads through sexual contact with an infected person. HSV-1 and HSV-2 can spread even in the absence of any sores. Some commonly seen symptoms of herpes infection are:

• Poor health condition
• Constant fatigue
• Emotional and physical stress

Symptoms of Herpes

Herpes appears as blisters on the affected areas such as the mouth, lips, genital, or rectum. As the blister matures and breaks, it creates sores that can be painful. If you observe any such sores in your body, get tested for herpes immediately. Visit a leading clinic that offers HSV1 and HSV2 testing in Arlington VA for accurate and immediate results.

Types of Tests For Detection of Herpes

Generally, tests for HSV are done only for sores in the genital area to confirm if the sores are caused by HSV. The test may also be done using blood, urine, or spinal fluid. Some tests you can get done through HSV1 and HSV2 testing in Arlington, VA are:

Herpes Viral Culture:

This test is done to detect the presence of the herpes virus in your body. The fluid is collected from a body sore and added to cells to grow HSV. The test is negative if the HSV virus does not infect the cells. False-negative results are a major drawback of this test.

Herpes Virus Antigen Detection Test:

Cells from a sore are scrapped and tested using a microscope for the presence of antigens. This test can be done along with viral culture or in place of it.

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) Test

The PCR test is done on the cells from a sore or on blood drawn from the patient. This test looks for the DNA of the HSV virus and can even differentiate between antigen HSV-1 and HSV-2.

Antibody Tests

Blood tests are done to detect antibodies created by the immune system to fight herpes infection. These tests are not as accurate as the viral culture tests and are also unable to detect the difference between a previous and current infection. Also, as the antibodies take time to develop in the body, the test may not come positive for those who have been recently infected.

Herpes Treatment

Unfortunately, there is no cure for herpes. However, the affected patients can get relief from the symptoms by following a treatment regimen prescribed by the physician. It can help patients get relief from the pain that follows an outbreak and can speed up the healing process and time. Along with the medications, warm baths are also recommended for relief from pain caused by genital sores.