Kaiser Permanente

26 Oct.,2023

 

Test Overview

A herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection can cause small, painful sores that look like blisters on the skin or the tissue lining (mucous membranes) of the throat, nose, mouth, urethra, rectum, and vagina. In rare cases, HSV can infect other parts of the body, such as the eyes and the brain.

HSV tests are most often done for sores on the genitals. If blisters or sores are present, a sample from a sore can be tested to check if it is caused by the herpes virus. HSV testing may also be done using other types of samples, such as spinal fluid, blood, urine, or tears.

Blood testing can be done to find out if you have been exposed to the herpes virus. But it is not usually done as part of a regular screening for sexually transmitted infections (STIs). That's because a positive result only means you have been exposed to the virus. The test can't tell if you will get sores or where on the body they might show up. The test also can't tell you if any sores you have are caused by the herpes virus.

There are two types of herpes, HSV-1 and HSV-2. Some HSV tests can tell which type of herpes you have. Knowing the type of HSV can help you decide if you want treatment or what treatment might be best for you and your partner(s).

For more information herpes rapid test, please get in touch with us!