Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 (HSV-2), Type-specific Antibodies, IgG

Serum

1.0 mL

0.5 mL (Note: This volume does not allow for repeat testing.)

Red-top tube, gel-barrier tube or serum transfer tube

This test is used to detect IgG antibodies specific to HSV type 2 infection and confirm or rule out possible infection with herpes simplex type 2 virus in prenatal patients in whom HSV 2 infection can cause serious prenatal disease. In a patient with no history of lesion disease, a positive result for this test may be indicative that the primary infection was asymptomatic. The magnitude of the Index Value is not indicative of the amount of antibody present in the patient sample. Once infected by HSV, it is possible for a patient to shed virus without the development of lesions (asymptomatic shedding). This test does not indicate the site of HSV infection. There is a considerable homology between HSV-1 and HSV-2 antigens, so that antibodies formed against either virus are highly cross-reactive. This assay is based on glycoprotein G-2, purified from HSV-2 infected cells, and is specific for type 2 antibodies.

Serum samples collected too early in the course of infection may not have detectable levels of HSV IgG. In cases of suspected early disease, a repeat serum specimen should be collected 14-21 days later and submitted for testing.

The predictive value of positive or negative results depends on the prevalence of disease and the pretest likelihood of HSV-1 and HSV-2.

False-positive results may occur. Repeat testing, or testing by a different method, may be indicated in some settings (e.g., patients with low likelihood of HSV infection).

This test is intended for qualitative determination only. The magnitude of the Index Value is not indicative of the amount of antibody present in the patient sample.

Chemiluminescent immunoassay (CLIA)