Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) 1 & 2 IgM

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) has 2 subtypes namely HSV 1 & HSV 2. HSV 1 more commonly causes cold sores around the lips while HSV 2 more commonly causes sores in the genitals. However both viruses can cause either infection. Infection spreads from person to person by close contact such as kissing & sexual intercourse. It can also spread from mother to baby during delivery. This test measures IgM antibodies against combined HSV 1 & HSV 2 virus in blood but cannot differentiate between them. IgM antibodies indicate recent exposure to the virus.