How accurate are IgM herpes tests?

Between 30% and 70% of people with recurrent herpes are positive on HSV IgM tests, depending on the test and the study. In other words, an IgM test, without any other data, does not prove that infection a herpes infection is recent. That’s particularly true if it is accompanied by a positive herpes IgG test.

Can herpes IgM be wrong?

Unfortunately, most people who are diagnosed will not be able to determine how long they have had the infection. In addition, IgM tests cannot accurately distinguish between HSV-1 and HSV-2 antibodies, and thus very easily provide a false positive result for HSV-2.

Can test results for herpes be wrong?

False positive results can occur with many diagnostic tests, including STD tests. The chances of false positive results increase as the likelihood of the infection decreases in the person being tested. False positive HSV-2 results can happen, especially in people who are at low risk for a herpes infection.

Can herpes be misdiagnosed in a culture test?

Turns out herpes is misdiagnosed 20% of the time, with professionals mistaking everything from fungal and yeast infections to other skin conditions for the STD. The tests themselves are also inaccurate; failing to detect up to 25% of “true positive” cases.

How long does herpes IgM stay positive?

The time required for the development of IgG antibodies following HSV infection varies from 21 to over 42 days with most individuals having detectable IgG 21–28 days after exposure to the infection and probably lasting for life.7–,9 IgM antibodies are usually detectable 9–10 days after exposure and last 7–14 days.

Can your immune system fight off herpes?

U.S. scientists say they have identified the cells in the immune system that suppress outbreaks of genital herpes in infected individuals. The discovery, published on Wednesday in the journal Nature, could lead to an effective treatment for the condition and help to prevent it from being spread to others.

Why is the herpes 1 and 2 IgM test not accurate?

The Herpes 1&2 IgM test cannot distinguish between Herpes type 1 and type 2. There is the possibility that the accuracy of this test may be affected by past exposure to other forms of the Herpes virus such as Chicken Pox, Shingles, or Mono.

Which is the best test for herpes without symptoms?

However, the IgM Antibodies test is the only test capable of detecting a recent Herpes infection without symptoms. Herpes is one of the most common STD’s and testing is recommended for anyone who is sexually active. Pregnant women should seek Herpes testing to avoid passing the infection during birth.

Can a IgM test show a false positive for HSV 2?

– The IgM blood test cannot accurately distinguish between HSV-1 and HSV-2 antibodies and in many cases can provide a false-positive result for HSV-2 virus. In addition, the test can also connect with other viruses like the varicella-zoster virus or cytomegalovirus and provide misleading results.

Is it possible to get a false positive for herpes?

False positives are not uncommon on herpes blood tests, particularly in areas where relatively few people have herpes. You might not be infected at all, or you might be infected with a different virus that stimulates antibodies that cross-react with the herpes test—like the Epstein Barr virus or parvovirus.