Negative results, So what do I have? - Herpes Message Board

Veryconfused · 08-17-2003, 07:04 PM

Over two years ago I was treated for what I was told was scabies. My derm ruled out Herpes after a biopsy returned a negative result. My syptoms kept popping up long after the scabies were supposed to have been gone, so I began to look into other causes. I found out that the biopsy was not the proper way to test for herpes so I had the Pockit test done, and the Herpeselect test done. Swabs were also taken, but at a time when no bumps were present. All results came back negative for HSV 1 & 2. My syptoms have included small pimple like bumps in the genital region, mild itching, and tingling. Initially I had pimple like bumps on my penis (which were explained away by the scabies), but I have not had them since... Bottom line is I want to trust the test results and get on with my life, but I can't get the thought that I might have herpes out of my mind. Is it possible that this is all in my head? What other tests can be taken to rule out herpes. I am going nuts over this!

TheOneInFour · 08-18-2003, 04:11 PM

Hi VC,

If you are getting recurring symptoms like that I can understand you being confused and concerned. I think I would be too. I wish I could say "Yes, I think you have herpes" or "No, I don't think you do" but I honestly don't know what to think from what you've said. You don't say how long after your initial symptoms you did the blood tests, but if they were done sooner than 6 months afterwards you might consider getting tested again. In fact, it might be a good idea in any case. I'd suggest this time get the Western Blot, which is kind of the Gold Standard of HSV blood tests.

If you're getting physical symptoms then obviously it's not "all in your head," although the symptoms may or may not be as serious or worrisome as you fear. Have you tried consulting a different dermatologist for a second opinion?

Good luck! Keep us posted what you find out and how you are doing.

TheOneInFour

[This message has been edited by moderator1 (edited 09-08-2003).]

Veryconfused · 08-18-2003, 04:50 PM

Thank for the reply... The blood work I had done was almost two years after I first noticed symptoms, so I should be ok on the window of time. I have seen my primary care doctor, my dermatoligist, along with several other dermatoligist in his office. They spent a good deal of time trying to figure out what was going on, and all agreed that I had scabies and needed to stop worrying about HSV... I participated in a study at a local university on asymptomatic herpes, which is where the swabs and Herpeselect test were given. Those results were negative, and they too said let it go, stop worrying. I realize that I can't get a yes or no from this board. I just keep reading about misdiagnosed cases, and bad doctors. I'm just so frustrated, and not sure what else to do. Thanks for your suggestions. I am seeing my dermatoligist again next week to find out what else could be causing these mild but upsetting symptoms. I'll post again if I find out more.

TheOneInFour · 08-19-2003, 01:42 AM

It sounds like you could believe the negative diagnosis easier if they'd give you another diagnosis to explain why you keep getting these symptoms. It's one thing to say it's not HSV (and it sounds like you've had among the best diagnostic procedures that there are) but clearly you've got something that keeps coming back.
1in4

[This message has been edited by moderator1 (edited 09-08-2003).]

Veryconfused · 08-26-2003, 12:37 PM

I saw my dermatoligist again this morning. He says not to worry about HSV. Says that foliculitis is common in the genital region and that it could show up even if I have not had symptoms before my Scabies bout. Says itching and tingling could be due to the stress of worrying about HSV... I called Herpes hotline and explained my history and the negative results I received from the blood tests I have had done. They said I should be in the clear, need to look at other causes other than HSV.

[This message has been edited by moderator1 (edited 09-08-2003).]