HSV-1 Testing: Understanding Oral Herpes and Testing Options

The herpes simplex virus is caused by two strains; HSV-1 and HSV-2. HSV-2 is commonly associated with genital sores and ulcers. HSV-1 occurs upon the mouth, resulting in fever blisters or cold sores. While HSV-2 causes most infections upon the genitalia, HSV-1 can result in genital sores, infections of the eyes and rare infections that attack the lining of the brain. HSV-1 infections of the genitals occur through oral-to-genital and genital-to-genital contact with infected individuals. Specific tests can help identify whether you have contracted the herpes virus.

Instructions

• 1

  The American Social Health Association urges that you get a culture within 48 hours of lesions appearing. Cultures can help identify the specific strain of herpes you have. A cotton swab will be used to swipe a sore, which is then examined for HSV. Request that your healthcare provider ask for the laboratory examining your culture to indicate on your lab report which strain you have contracted.

• 2

  Submit tissue scrapings. These scrapings will be smeared onto a slide to look for the virus. Samples will need to be taken during an active outbreak, when many sores are present.

• 3

  Give a sample of your blood. Blood tests can detect HSV antibodies, according to the Mayo Clinic. You can specifically ask your healthcare provider for blood tests that will pinpoint either HSV-1 and HSV-2.

• 4

  Undergo a PCR, or polymerase chain reaction, test. Blood, spinal fluid or tissue samples will be taken to examine the DNA. PCR tests can find DNA containing the herpes virus.