Herpes Simplex Virus 2 IgM

Herpes Simplex Virus 2 (HSV-2) is the main cause of genital herpes which is a sexually transmitted disease. Genital herpes infection is mostly asymptomatic but symptoms such as genital blisters, body aches & fever do occur in some patients. Antibodies are produced by immune system to fight with the virus. This test detects IgM antibodies that are the first antibodies produced in response to a herpes infection. IgM antibodies are usually detectable 9-10 days after exposure of infection and lasts for 7-14 days. Antivirals are recommended to reduce the severity & frequency of symptoms but it can not cure the infection.