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What Does an Inconclusive Herpes Test Mean?

Suspecting that you have herpes is terrifying. Luckily, there are many tests that can diagnose or rule out herpes. However, one of the common varieties, a simple blood test, can often be inconclusive, leaving you feeling frustrated.

  1. Types of Herpes

    • HSV-1 is usually associated with cold sores, but it can appear in the genital area due to oral sex. HSV-2 is the more common form of the sexually transmitted disease.

    Symptoms of Herpes

    • The first signs of HSV-2 are small red bumps, blisters and open sores in the genital region accompanied with burning and itching. Mild flu symptoms can also be present at the time of the outbreak.

    Tests

    • There are three common tests for HSV-2: a viral sample of the affect tissue, a blood test to detect antibodies to HSV-1 or HSV-2; and a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test that looks at the DNA of tissue or spinal fluid.

    Blood Test

    • The blood test is the most common test that can provide an inconclusive result. The blood test looks for antibodies that the body develops while fighting a herpes outbreak.

    Inconclusive Test

    • If your blood test is inconclusive you have to wait four to six weeks before taking another.

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