July 21st, 2011 |
Published in
Genital Herpes Testing, Oral Herpes Testing
Accurate Blood-based Herpes Testing
Among the different herpes tests available, the herpes IgG test is a highly accurate and readily available option. The herpes IgG test is a blood-based screen, but is often confused with the other type of blood test, the IgM herpes test. There is a great deal of confusion surrounding between these two testing options, even within the medical community. To put all misunderstandings to rest, here’s the basic information about how the herpes IgG test:
How The Herpes IgG Test Works
Rather than detecting the actual virus, the IgG herpes test measures a specific type of antibody produced by the immune system after a person is infected with the virus, the immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibody. When certain levels of the antibody are present, a positive herpes diagnosis is made. The IgG antibody remains in the blood for life unlike the IgM antibody which disappears shortly after infection.
Benefits of the Herpes IgG Test
Since the IgG test relies on antibodies for a diagnosis rather than a sample for an outbreak, it has the ability to provide accurate results even when symptoms are absent. For this reason, the herpes IgG test is commonly used in routine STD testing and general checkups. Also, unlike the herpes IgM test, this method of herpes testing can distinguish between the two strains of the virus, HSV-1 (oral herpes) and HSV-2 (genital herpes). Lastly, the IgG test is 99.9 percent when administered during the recommended window period.
The One Drawback to the Herpes IgG Test
As the most widely distributed and trusted form of herpes testing, there are few disadvantages. Most notably, the time it takes for the IgG antibodies to appear can vary by individual. Most professionals recommend waiting three to six weeks, but it some cases it can take up to 12 to 16 weeks for a detectable level of antibodies to show up. If a herpes test is taken too soon following exposure, it could lead to a false positive.
July 21st, 2011 |
Published in
Genital Herpes Testing, Oral Herpes Testing
Simplifying Herpes Testing
The AtheNA Multi-Lyte HSV 1 & 2 IgG Plus Test System sets itself apart through advance technology. The system used for herpes testing makes the process easier for both the patients and the lab technicians running the test. In addition to a herpes test, the AtheNA Multi-Lyte Test System offers screening for a wide range of diagnostic testing.
The AtheNA Multi-Lyte test is a less labor intensive and more streamlined method of herpes testing compared to IFA and ELISA tests. The automated process reduces the potential for human error while maintaining comparable levels of clinical accuracy.
The AtheNA Multi-Lyte herpes test is a blood-based screen which detects the IgG herpes antibody. IgG antibodies are present in the bloodstream forever and can be detect whether symptoms regardless whether symptoms are present. The AtheNA Multi-Lyte is used in routine STD screening for sexually active adults and pregnant women. This test can be specifically ordered to test for HSV-1 (oral herpes) or HSV-2 (genital herpes) for a clear diagnosis.
July 21st, 2011 |
Published in
Genital Herpes Testing, Oral Herpes Testing
The Most Accurate and Advanced Herpes Test
When an ELISA herpes test comes back with confusing or ambiguous results, the Western Blot confirmatory test provides accurate answers. The Western Blot is recognized as the “gold standard” in herpes testing with accuracy rates greater than 99 percent.
While the ELISA method is a FDA-approved herpes test, it can occasionally produce indeterminate results or a rare false negative. The Western Blot test provides confirmation for both strains of herpes: HSV-1 (oral herpes) and HSV-2 (genital herpes).
The Western Blot test has been extensively studied in clinical trials to ensure maximum accuracy. Patients taking the Western Blot herpes test can be confident with the results.
However, despite being the best herpes test available, the Western Blot is only performed at one lab in the United States. Blood samples are acquired at labs throughout the country, but the specimen is then shipped to the performing laboratory at the University of Washington. Herpes testing can take a total of two to three weeks for results to return.
