Genital Herpes Antibody Test - Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 (HSV-2) IgM Test

This serological test measures the titer of immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibodies directed against herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2). These antibodies appear during the first to second week after the initial infection, peak, and then begin to decline over several weeks to months. The presence of HSV-2 IgM is indicative of a recent primary infection. It is important to note that reactivation of the infection (recurrent episodes) may not produce reliably detectable levels of IgM. This test is often ordered in conjunction with HSV-2 IgG to accurately determine the stage of infection.