How to Test For Herpes - Diagnose Genital Herpes
Very often symptoms of herpes gets confused with some other skin problems. Unless you test for herpes you shouldn't just conclude that you have it. On the other hand you may have herpes but it remain undetected and you inadvertently transfer it to your partner. This will be very unfortunate for your partner.
In either case if you suspect it, test it.
There are many different methods to test for herpes but leave that to your doctor to decide. If you see sores on your genitals. Don't waste time. Go and see your doctor.
Cell culture test for Herpes.
In this case a sample is taken from a sore and he will see through microscope in a cell culture. If Herpes Simplex Virus is present in the sample then they will multiply
Direct Fluorescent Antibody Test
This is more advanced test. In this test it is possible to identify the type of virus that is causing herpes. By knowing the Type of Virus you are infected with it is possible to know the source of infection as well as you will know how frequently out break will occur.
If it turns out to be HSV1 type of infection then it is clear that it is come through oral sex. If it is HSV2 then it is infected through normal sex. The HSV2 will have more frequent out breaks.
Blood Test for Herpes
The blood test is particularly useful when you have no symptoms but you are concerned. Herpes can remain latent for years. The shortcoming of the test is that it can not detect any latest contraction of herpes as it takes long for the antibodies to develop.
Antibodies are generally formed to fight off the virus after infection. After the infection these antibodies remain in the blood for ever. So barring a recent infection this blood test can detect infection of herpes if any.
There are many other tests for Herpes but most of them are not totally reliable.
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How To Test For Herpes