Resolved question:
My boyfriend just did routine std testing and the results showed that he has a trace of HSV 1. Now it said the range was >5 and he was .09. We were told by an advisor(who were not doctors) that the test just probably detected some antibodies and it can be gotten from any type of skin contact or mucous membranes. The test showed negative for HSV 2 however. I guess my question is is this something he should be worried about or should he just treat it like the flu or a Tb exposure that most ppl have? And also should i be worried or get tested or treat it same like a flu or Tb exposure? Please tour answers and expertise will help tremendously. I don't know what to think.
Submitted:
4 Days
Category:
Sexually Transmitted Diseases(STD)Specialist
Dear,
Thank you for your query at DoctorSpring.com
I understand your concern.
HSV-1 infection can even happen in childhood in absence of any sexual exposure. Infact 30 % of adult western population is infected with HSV, and 50 % of them never show any symptoms. So, unless he had any outbreaks, there is nothing to worry about. Is that IGM or IGG antibody test??
Regards.
It was an IGG test. Does that make a difference? Or what is the difference between the two?
Yes, IGG test indicates past infection.
It could even indicate a childhood infection. IGM indicates recent exposure.
Regards.
Would it be advisable to get tested for it? Most people say it is a can of worms you don't even want to open unless you are seeing serious problems or outbreaks?Thank you very much
Kindly note this consult was initiated quite a long ago, and we keep consults open not more than a month.
If you want to discuss further, you need to initiate a new consult.
Regards.