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

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.

This test is used for qualitative detection of IgG antibodies specific to HSV type 2. This test is intended for sexually active individuals and pregnant individuals as an aid in the presumptive diagnosis of HSV-2 infection. The test results may not determine the state of active lesions or associated disease manifestations, particularly in primary infection. The predictive value of positive an negative results depends on the population's prevalence and the pretest likelihood of HSV-2. The detection of HSV-2 IgG antibodies in a single sample indicates a previous exposure to HSV-2 but does not give information as to the site of HSV infection or the timing of exposure.

Chemiluminescent immunoassay (CLIA)

Electrochemiluminescience immunoassay (ECLIA)