Obstetrics & Gynecology

Answer 2 HSV type 2 antibody test. HSV glycoprotein G1 and G2 levels can be tested. These are HSV type-specific proteins (antibodies) and can be detected in the serum of women who have been exposed to HSV and who have seroconverted. Cultures obtained from HSV lesions are the traditional method of diagnosis of HSV infection. However, low sensitivity, poor reliability, and difficulty in the transport of specimens often prevent accurate detection of the virus. In addition, the timing of viral cultures is crucial, because an inadequate sample will be obtained unless an open, unhealed lesion is present. A complete blood count, bacterial cultures, or wet mount analysis are useful for diagnosis of other infections, but not HSV. SUGGESTED READINGS 1. Langenberg AG, Corey L, Ashley RL, et al. A prospective study of new infections with herpes simplex virus type 1 and type 2. Chiron HSV Vaccine Study Group. New Engl J Med 1999;341:1432-8. 2. Scott LL, Sanchez PJ, Jackson GL, et al. Acyclovir suppression to prevent cesarean delivery after first-episode genital herpes. Obstet Gynecol 1996;87:69-73. Click here to return to the questions

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