Herpes Simplex Virus II (HSV)-IgM
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Detects IgM antibodies specific to: HSV-2: Primarily causes genital herpes
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🧪 What is HSV-2 IgM?
The HSV-2 IgM test is a serological blood test that detects Immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibodies to Herpes Simplex Virus Type II (HSV-2).
- IgM antibodies typically appear within 5–10 days of exposure and are usually the first antibodies produced during an initial (primary) or reactivated HSV-2 infection.
- HSV-2 primarily causes genital herpes.
❓ Why is the Test Done?
To:
- Diagnose a recent or primary HSV-2 infection
- Evaluate acute symptoms like painful genital sores or fever
- Aid in identifying maternal infection during pregnancy (neonatal herpes risk)
- Differentiate primary vs recurrent herpes episodes (in combination with IgG)
⚠️ IgM results should not be used alone for diagnosis due to cross-reactivity and false positives.
📊 Normal Range / Reference Values
Result | Interpretation |
|---|---|
Negative (<0.9 Index) | No evidence of recent HSV-2 infection |
Equivocal (0.9–1.1 Index) | Borderline – retest in 1–2 weeks |
Positive (>1.1 Index) | Possible recent or active HSV-2 infection |
Index thresholds may vary by laboratory assay.
📈 Interpretation of Results
Result | Meaning |
|---|---|
HSV-2 IgM Positive + IgG Negative | Likely early primary HSV-2 infection – confirm with repeat testing or PCR |
HSV-2 IgM Positive + IgG Positive | Could be recent reactivation or late primary infection |
HSV-2 IgM Negative + IgG Positive | Past infection, latent stage |
HSV-2 IgM Negative + IgG Negative | No prior exposure; susceptible to infection |
❗ IgM can cross-react with HSV-1, reducing specificity – PCR is more reliable in active infection.
🧠 Associated Organs & Conditions
Organ/System | Conditions |
|---|---|
Genital Mucosa | Painful ulcers, blisters (Genital herpes) |
Nervous System | HSV-2 meningitis (aseptic) |
Neonatal | Risk of neonatal herpes if mother is infected at delivery |
Rectum (in MSM) | Proctitis |
🔄 Related / Follow-Up Tests
- HSV-2 IgG – Confirms past or chronic infection
- HSV-1 IgM/IgG – Check for cross-infection or co-infection
- HSV PCR (swab of lesion) – Best for active infection detection
- TORCH Panel – Prenatal screening
- HIV Testing – HSV-2 co-infection increases HIV transmission risk
✅ Fasting Required?
Test | Fasting Requirement |
|---|---|
HSV-2 IgM | ❌ Not required – Can be done at any time |
📝 Summary Table
Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
What | Detects IgM antibodies to HSV-2 indicating recent or reactivated infection |
Why | Diagnose acute genital herpes, especially in symptomatic patients or during pregnancy |
Normal Range | Negative (<0.9 Index) |
Positive Result | Suggests recent or active infection |
Follow-up Tests | HSV IgG, HSV PCR, TORCH, HIV |
Associated Conditions | Genital herpes, HSV-2 meningitis, neonatal herpes |
Fasting Required | ❌ No |
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