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BDS, MDS - Oral Pathology and Microbiology

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Dr. Ashish Ranjan

MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)

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Herpes Simplex Virus 1 IgG

(HSV-1, IgG)

You need to provide

Blood

This test is for

Male, Female

Test Preparation

No special preparation required

Understanding Herpes Simplex Virus 1 IgG

What is Herpes Simplex Virus 1 IgG?

Herpes Simplex Virus 1 IgG test is used to measure IgG antibodies in response to the Herpes simplex viral infection. HSV infection is of two types HSV I and HSV II. HSV I mostly affects oral parts while HSV II affects genitals of the body. IgG antibodies are formed two to three months post HSV infection therefore its presence can be detected several weeks after primary infection.

In most of the cases blisters on genitals or oral parts appear after infection. However sometimes no symptoms are seen in the initial stage even after the infection. As people already suffering from an STD are at a higher risk of infection with the virus, following safe sex practices is one of the simple and effective ways to prevent this infection.

Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Herpes Simplex Virus 1 IgG

Frequently Asked Questions about Herpes Simplex Virus 1 IgG

Q. Is there any risk associated with this test?

There is no risk associated with the test. However, since this test involves a needle prick to withdraw the blood sample, in very rare cases, a patient may experience increased bleeding, hematoma formation (blood collection under the skin), bruising or infection at the site of needle prick.

Q. How can herpes be prevented?

Oral herpes (mouth sores, skin lesions in non-genital sites) can't be prevented as exposure to it occurs during everyday life. The most reliable way to avoid genital infection with herpes or any sexually transmitted diseases is to abstain from oral, vaginal, and anal sex. The other effective way is to have a long-term, mutually monogamous relationship with an uninfected partner. People who are sexually active should use condoms correctly and consistently to reduce the risk of infection with herpes and other STDs.