Take a blood test for herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2


Herpes simplex virus

Herpes simplex virus types I and II

Blood with EDTA is used as a biological material for this study. To prepare for the analysis, you need to stop eating food 3 hours before the procedure. You can only drink non-carbonated purified water.

Herpes simplex virus is a DNA virus. There are 2 serotypes of the pathogen - herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2.

HSV-1 often causes lesions in the mucous membranes of the mouth, eyes and skin. In rare cases, genital lesions may develop. Herpes simplex virus 1 can also cause herpes encephalitis and pneumonitis. Herpes simplex virus type 2 in most cases causes genital lesions, herpes in newborns, and disseminated herpes.

The herpes simplex virus is very dangerous during pregnancy. If the pathogen circulates in the blood, there is a high probability of spontaneous miscarriage, the development of severe damage to the fetus and baby, and the formation of congenital deformities.

In laboratory conditions, it is not difficult to detect the DNA of the herpes simplex virus in the biological material of a patient. The test can detect both types of virus.

A referral for analysis is issued in the following cases:

  • The presence of characteristic symptoms of the disease (specific rashes on any part of the body);
  • Aggravated obstetric history (loss of a child during childbirth, birth of a baby with serious malformations);
  • Suspicion of herpes during pregnancy (those women who, during an ultrasound examination, show signs of intrauterine infection, lymphadenopathy, as well as suspected hepatitis and hepatosplenomegaly of unknown origin)
  • Signs of intrauterine infection in children, as well as the presence of congenital malformations, vesicles or crusts on the skin or mucous membranes;
  • Newborn infants with sepsis, hepatitis, pneumonia, eye or gastrointestinal damage;
  • Comprehensive examination of patients who have an immunodeficiency state.

There is no acceptable value in interpreting test results. If DNA of the herpes simplex virus is detected in biological material, this indicates that the person is a carrier of the pathogen.

Deciphering the test for Herpes simplex virus

Antibodies to herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2

An increased concentration of specific immunoglobulins of class G indicates that the virus has definitely been present in the patient’s body for a long time. However, this analysis is never carried out once - to determine the dynamics of the development of the disease, it must be repeated 10 days after the first submission of biological material. And if by that time the concentration of viral cells in the body increases by more than 30%, this indicates that the infection is actively progressing and will soon make itself felt.

In addition, an increase in the concentration of specific class G antibodies in the blood of a pregnant woman may indicate that the fetus has an intrauterine infection. Here it is necessary to look at the patient’s condition, study the indicators of other tests, as well as the results of an ultrasound examination of the fetus. Also, if the patient had the herpes virus before pregnancy, the likelihood of developing an intrauterine infection in the fetus is significantly reduced.

If class A antibodies are detected in the blood, it is impossible to say exactly what phase the disease is currently in. But with a high degree of probability, the doctor can judge that the patient is infected.

If class M antibodies are detected, this indicates that at the time of collection of the biological material the infection was in the active phase. The production of specific immunoglobulins of this class indicates that at least 2 weeks have passed since the infection. The diagnosis depends on the concentration of these immunoglobulins - the more there are, the more aggressive the infection behaves in the body.

If the test result for herpes is negative, this indicates that the patient has not encountered this pathogen. There are a number of conditions under which a test can be false positive, but this is extremely rare.

HSV (HSV 1+2) IgG

Material for research: blood serum. Determination method: enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The study is carried out using a test system produced by Vector Best (Russia). The presence of class G antibodies to herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2 (HSV, HSV) indicates a previous or current infection with herpes simplex virus types 1 or 2. Herpes infection is caused by two different but related forms of the Herpes simplex virus, known as herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), which most commonly causes a “fever”; on the lips - and herpes virus type 2 (HSV-2). A common property of these viruses is their constant presence in the human body from the moment of infection. The virus can be in a “dormant” or active state and does not leave the body even under the influence of medications. The manifest manifestation of any herpes infection indicates a decrease in immunity. Herpes simplex virus type 1 is extremely common. Primary infection occurs, in most cases, in preschool age. In the future, the likelihood of infection drops sharply. A typical manifestation of infection is a “cold” on the lips. However, with oral contact, damage to the genitals is possible. Internal organs are affected only with a significant decrease in immunity. Genital herpes is characterized by the appearance of clusters of small, painful blisters on the genitals. Soon they burst, leaving small ulcers. In men, blisters most often form on the penis, sometimes in the urethra and rectum. In women, usually on the labia, less often in the cervix or anal area. After 1-3 weeks the disease seems to go away. But the virus penetrates the nerve fibers and continues to exist, hiding in the sacral part of the spinal cord. In many patients, genital herpes causes relapses of the disease. They occur with varying frequencies - from once a month to once every few years. They are provoked by other diseases, troubles, and even simply overheating in the sun. The genital herpes virus Herpes simplex type 2 primarily affects the integumentary tissue (epithelium) of the cervix in women and the penis in men, causing pain, itching, and the appearance of transparent blisters (vesicles) in place of which erosions/ulcers form. However, with oral contact, damage to the covering tissue of the lips and oral cavity is possible. In pregnant women: The virus can cross the placenta into the fetus and cause birth defects. Herpes can also cause spontaneous abortion or premature birth. But the danger of infection of the fetus is especially likely during childbirth, when passing through the cervix and vagina during primary or recurrent genital infection in the mother. Such infection increases the death rate of newborns or the development of severe brain or eye damage by 50%. Moreover, a certain risk of infection of the fetus exists even in cases where the mother does not have any symptoms of genital herpes at the time of birth. A child can become infected after birth if the mother or father has lesions in the mouth, or receive the virus through breast milk. Herpes simplex virus type II appears to be associated with cervical and vaginal cancer and increases susceptibility to HIV infection, which causes AIDS! In response to the introduction of HSV in the body, the production of specific immunoglobulins of class M (Ig M) begins. They can be detected in the blood 4-6 days after infection. They reach their maximum value at 15-20 days. From 10-14 days, the production of specific Ig G begins, somewhat later - IgA Ig M and Ig A do not remain in the human body for long (1-2 months), Ig G - throughout life (seropositivity). The detection of Ig M and/or a fourfold increase in the titers of specific immunoglobulins G (Ig G) in paired blood sera obtained from the patient with an interval of 10-12 days has diagnostic significance for primary infection with the herpes virus. Recurrent herpes usually occurs against the background of high Ig G levels, indicating constant antigenic stimulation of the body. The appearance of Ig M in such patients is a sign of exacerbation of the disease. An increase in Ig G levels may indicate: Chronic infection. An increase in antibody titer by more than 30% during repeated studies indicates activation of the infection, a decrease in antibody titer corresponds to positive dynamics; Intrauterine infection is possible, but its likelihood is unknown (if the test was first performed during pregnancy) or not high (if tests before pregnancy revealed the presence of anti-HSV-IgG). HSV infection is part of the group of TORCH infections (the name is formed by the initial letters in the Latin names - Toxoplasma, Rubella, Cytomegalovirus, Herpes), which are considered potentially dangerous for the development of a child. It is most advisable to carry out laboratory testing for TORCH infections 2-3 months before the planned pregnancy. This makes it possible to take the necessary therapeutic or preventive measures, and serves as a point of comparison with the results of examinations during pregnancy. Indications for the purpose of analysis:

  • Preparing for pregnancy (recommended for both partners);
  • Signs of intrauterine infection, feto-placental insufficiency;
  • State of immunosuppression due to HIV infection, neoplastic diseases, taking cytostatic drugs, etc.;
  • Differential diagnosis of urogenital infections;
  • Blistering herpetimorphic rashes;

Preparation for the study: not required

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Research method - Chemiluminescent immunoassay

Material for research - Blood serum

Herpes (Antibodies to HSV 1.2 IgG, Herpes Simplex Virus Antibody 1.2 IgG, HSV 1.2 IgG) is a viral disease characterized by a characteristic rash of grouped blisters on the skin and mucous membranes, caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). HSV is a DNA virus from the Herpesviridae family. There are two types of herpes simplex virus. They are characterized by various biological and epidemiological features. HSV-1 causes infections of the mucous membranes of the eyes, mouth, and nose and is one of the causes of severe sporadic encephalitis in adults. HSV-2 is characterized by anogenital lesions (so-called urogenital herpes).

The herpes simplex virus is transmitted by airborne droplets and sexually; it is also characterized by vertical transmission from a pregnant woman to the fetus. In advanced chronic cases or in cases of immunodeficiency, the herpes virus HSV-1 and HSV-2 can affect the eyes (herpetic keratitis), brain (herpetic encephalitis), and internal organs. Testing for herpes during pregnancy is simply necessary, because During pregnancy, especially in the first trimester, when the main organs and systems of the fetus are formed, primary infection of the mother can become fatal to the fetus. In this case, the risk of threatened miscarriage and miscarriages increases threefold, and the development of deformities in the fetus is possible. When infected with the herpes simplex virus in the second trimester, the risk of congenital anomalies of the fetus increases, such as congenital viral pneumonia, retinal pathology, microcephaly, and heart defects. There is a high probability of developing miscarriage. During childbirth, passing through the mother's infected genital tract, the child can become infected with herpes, especially if during pregnancy the woman experiences an exacerbation of genital herpes, and the rashes are localized on the cervix or in the genital tract.

As with all TORCH infections, during herpes infection a person produces antibodies, which significantly reduce the likelihood of disease progression and generalization of the process, and the virus most often manifests itself only when immunity is reduced (as, for example, HSV-1 during a cold). In people who are seronegative (lack of antibodies to herpes simplex viruses) and have never been infected, primary infection occurs. Secondary infection is the activation of latent infection or reinfection in seropositive patients. Most people infected with the herpes simplex virus are asymptomatic, so serological diagnosis is necessary.

IgG antibodies are formed 2–3 weeks after infection with HSV and after a few months their titer decreases significantly. In patients with relapse of the disease, the IgG antibody titer often does not increase. A final diagnosis of acute herpetic infection is possible only after isolating the virus by culture. However, serological blood testing for herpes provides valuable additional information when screening for “high-risk” groups, such as pregnant women.

Interpretation of test results is for informational purposes only, is not a diagnosis and does not replace medical advice. Reference values ​​may differ from those indicated depending on the equipment used, the actual values ​​will be indicated on the results form.

If a questionable result is obtained, the analysis must be repeated after one to two weeks.

A negative result in a blood test for herpes can be regarded as the absence of infection, but acute infection with HSV-1 and HSV-2 is still possible, which can occur without the development of antibodies for 2-3 weeks. If HSV infection is clinically suspected, upon receipt of a negative test result for herpes, it is necessary to repeat the test no earlier than after one to two weeks. Seroconversion from a negative result to a positive result may occur as the infection progresses. Changes in IgG antibody titer during a current herpes infection are unlikely.

Unit of measurement: Unit

Reference values:

  • < 0.9 – negative result
  • 0.9 – 1.1 – the result is doubtful
  • ≥ 1.1 – positive result

Possible complications

HSV-2 infection poses a threat to the reproductive functions of women and men. In pregnant women, a primary infection or recurrence of the disease can lead to miscarriage. Like other herpes, HSV-2 can cause birth defects or death in the womb.

Most often, infection of a child in the womb is provoked by active infection with HSV-2 without clear clinical symptoms. When observed in women, frequent and prolonged relapses of genital herpes significantly increase the risk of developing cervical cancer, and in men - prostate paralysis.

Prevention

The best way to protect yourself from relapses of HSV-2 is to maintain the protective functions of the human body and strengthen the immune system as a whole. A healthy, normal lifestyle, proper and nutritious nutrition, as well as giving up various addictions and reducing stress help prevent recurrent manifestations of this virus.

During periods of remission, restoration of microflora in the intestinal cavity and treatment of other inflammatory diseases should be carried out. Patients are advised to use immunostimulants that are based on natural substances and components. At this stage, vaccination is possible to form the protective functions of the immune system.

The vaccine is effective in the treatment of herpes type 2. It helps reduce the likelihood of relapse and better tolerate further possible complications. After vaccination in the remission phase, patients undergo regular clinical examinations. At this stage, it is very important to give the body a rest and prepare it for the next treatment.

Monitoring the progress of remission is recommended every 3 months, and in the absence of relapses - once a year. Such measures are necessary, especially for women planning pregnancy or during pregnancy. For some groups of patients, further treatment with immunomodulatory drugs and probiotics is possible. With proper and appropriate treatment, the prognosis for most patients is favorable.

Detailed description of the study

Herpes simplex virus type 1 is one of the most common human pathogens. This pathogen most often causes characteristic lesions on the skin of the face, and can also cause the formation of ulcers and rashes on the oral mucosa and organs of the urogenital tract. Less commonly, the penetration of this virus into the body leads to inflammation of the eyes. Infection with this pathogen usually occurs in preschool age. The high contagiousness (infectiousness) of the herpes virus ensures its widespread transmission in groups by air, contact and household contact, but infection is also possible through sexual contact. Primary infection occurs in the form of the appearance of small bubbles with transparent contents (vesicles). After a few days, a crust (scab) forms on their surface, and within about a month the rash completely disappears. According to various data, up to 95% of people upon reaching adulthood have had contact with the herpes simplex virus type 1 and have developed immunity to it. However, it is not possible for the immune system to completely cope with this pathogen due to its penetration into an area inaccessible to antibodies - the nodes (ganglia) of the peripheral nerves. Thus, the herpes simplex virus type 1 remains in the body for life. Its re-activation is provoked by a decrease in the body’s defense mechanisms against the background of physical and mental overload, severe chronic diseases or surgical interventions, and taking drugs that suppress the immune system. Reactivation of the herpes simplex virus clinically manifests itself in the form of characteristic rashes in the corners of the lips or other areas of the face. The presence of IgG antibodies to herpes simplex virus type 1 allows us to assess whether the immune system has previously encountered this pathogen or not. These antibodies are formed several weeks after infection and remain in the body throughout life. Against the background of virus reactivation, their number may increase. Determining antibodies to the herpes simplex virus is especially important for pregnant women, since the lack of immunity to this infection creates increased risks for the development of the fetus in the event of intrauterine infection.

Symptoms

The content of the article

HSV-2 infection is manifested by redness of the skin and itching. The virus affects the skin and mucous membranes of the genital organs. In particular, in women it affects the vaginal area, and in men it affects the urethra, scrotum and penis itself.

Symptoms of inflammation often appear on the inner surface of the buttocks and thighs, as well as around the anus. After two days, papules form at the site of inflammation - a characteristic rash in the form of nodules. They quite quickly enter the maturation phase - into vesicles filled with clear serous fluid. These rashes appear as large clusters consisting of groups of tiny blisters.

At the same time, the person’s skin itches and hurts. Within 2-3 days, most of the blisters crack, and in their place ulcers form, which are then covered with a dry crust. The patient's condition improves only after 2-3 weeks; during this period, incomplete clinical recovery is observed.

HSV-2 can cause the following symptoms: general weakness and malaise, as well as low-grade fever. In men and women with herpes virus type 2, the inguinal lymph nodes often become enlarged. The time of relative health (remission) alternates with periods of exacerbation of herpes.

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