A herpes test is a medical procedure performed to determine if a patient is a carrier of the herpes virus. This test is usually done if symptoms occur that suggest herpes, or if a patient reports possible exposure to the virus. There are actually several different types of herpes test that can be done to determine a comprehensive diagnosis.
The herpes simplex virus is a relatively common condition that can occur through exposure to an infected person. Most often, herpes is spread through sexual contact, but can also be spread through shared materials such as eating utensils or by mother to baby contact during birth. People with herpes may experience outbreaks of painful and itchy sores or blisters. The disease may be managed with medication, but cannot be cured.
If a person shows signs of herpes or may have been exposed to the virus, there are a number of common tests that can check for the disease. When symptoms are present, the first herpes test that may be done is called a viral culture. Cells are collected from the sores and examined with a microscope for signs of a disease marker called the herpes antigen. Even though this method is considered by many experts to be the most accurate, false negative results can occur. To ensure a correct diagnosis, a doctor may call for additional tests to confirm a herpes diagnosis.
Another type of herpes test is called a polymerase chain reaction or PCR test. This test uses bodily fluid such as blood, spinal fluid, or the fluid in potential herpes blisters to test for the virus. PCR tests read the DNA of the sample, looking for telltale DNA patterns of the herpes virus. This herpes test can identify whether the condition exists and what type of herpes virus is present. The PCR test is frequently performed if there is a concern that herpes may be causing a rare infection in the brain.
One other common herpes test checks blood samples for an indication of antibodies. Antibodies are the immune system's response to an infection; they are agents sent out to destroy an invading bacteria or virus. The presence of herpes-fighting antibodies in the blood can indicate an infection, but often fails to show when the infection occurred. Antibodies may also not show up on a herpes test for some time, as they are generally a response to an active outbreak of herpes rather than an initial infection.
Herpes is a serious medical condition that requires diagnosis and careful lifestyle management. Since not all people display identifiable symptoms, it is easy to carry and pass on the infection without knowing it. A herpes test can quickly and easily determine the presence of the virus, as well as what type of herpes is present. Doctors frequently recommend herpes testing after any possible contact with the virus, such as unprotected sex.
