Weird test results - Herpes Message Board

mikej03 · 01-23-2004, 09:57 AM

Got tested on Jan 5 (12 - 13 weeks after exposure) and test came back as follows:

IGM H 1 and 2 = negative
IGG H 1 and 2 = negative (H1 was 0.14 and H2 was 0.30)

However, tested again from a different lab on Jan 13 (13 - 14 weeks after exposure) and got these results:

IGM H1 and H2 = "detected"
IGG H1 and 2 = negative; (H1 was .015 and H2 was 0.16)

Doctor said I was positive because the IGM said "detected".

What are the chances that the IGM changed in a matter of 8 days, especially since it was nearly 14 weeks later? From what I read IGM stays in your system for a shorter period then goes away, especially after nearly 3 1/2 months after exposure.

Plus, my IGG for H2 was LOWER the second time, if I was positive, wouldn't it have been higher?

Please help a confused man,
mj

lance77 · 01-24-2004, 10:29 AM

Minor changes in IGG are normal since there is a certain amount of background noise that is detected that will fluctuate. This tells you nothing. IGM is susceptible to false positives. From what I understand IGM responses are not as specific as they are first responders to infection. I'm not entirely clear on why false positives show up on IGM, just that it happens enough that most experts will only diagnose H with other supporting evidence with an IGM (i.e. - culture, visual diagnosis). The more specific IGGs take time to develop. You are right, at 13 weeks IGM should be gone and IGG should be detectable. I would be encouraged by two low readings on IGG at 12-14 weeks. I would follow up on the positive IGM with another test and consult another doctor about the results.