Anti-HSV-1 IgG

The human pathogenic type 1 and 2 herpes simplex viruses (HSV-1 and HSV-2) infect epithelial cells of the mucous membranes: HSV-1 primarily in the head area (herpes labialis), HSV-2 in the genital and anal areas (herpes genitalis). In the acute stage, the infection causes formation of characteristic blisters. In transitioning to the latent stage, these viruses enter the sensory nerves and spinal ganglia, where they persist throughout the lifetime of the patient. They are often reactivated, causing a recurrence of symptoms. It is always recommended to determine a woman’s HSV status during pregnancy to estimate the newborn’s risk for perinatal infection. Detection of IgM antibodies against HSV virus is important to confirm an acute primary infection, which has been detected via PCR. Besides, IgM antibodies may also be detectable in cases of recurrent or persistent infection. IgG antibodies against the type-specific glycoprotein G1 are formed two to three months after a primary infection with the type 1 herpes simplex virus. IgG-class antibodies against glycoprotein G2 are detectable several weeks after primary infection.