Herpes simplex, Herpes simplex, antibodies to types 1/2 IgG

general characteristics

The production of class G antibodies begins 10-14 days after infection. IgG remains in the body for life (seropositivity). These immunoglobulins do not provide lasting immunity and protection against reactivation. Recurrent herpes usually occurs against the background of an increase in IgG levels, which indicates antigenic stimulation of the body. IgG penetrates the fetoplacental barrier. Therefore, the presence of these immunoglobulins in newborns is not an unambiguous sign of infection; maternal antibodies can circulate in the child’s body for several years. Herpes virus type 1 most often causes blistering rashes on the lips. Herpes virus type 2 causes genital lesions. In the future, type I virus can infect other mucous membranes, including the genital organs. A common property of these viruses is their constant presence in the human body from the moment of infection. The virus can be in a “dormant” or active state and does not leave the body even under the influence of medications. The manifest manifestation of any herpes infection indicates a decrease in immunity.

Take a blood test for herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2

Herpes simplex virus (HSV, HSV) is a DNA virus of the herpesvirus family. There are two types of virus: HSV-1 and HSV-2. HSV-1 manifests itself in the form of rashes of small blisters in the mouth and in the oral cavity, eyes, and skin. The herpes virus can be extremely dangerous if it causes the development of meningoencephalitis. Since the virus affects nerve endings, as the infection spreads, it can penetrate the brain. Such conditions are extremely serious and require urgent medical attention. Herpes virus type 1 is extremely common among the population. Sometimes people do not even know that they are infected, because the virus can be present in the body for a long time without causing any changes. The spread of the virus is facilitated by its transmission route - airborne droplets. Usually, in the presence of herpetic eruptions on the oral mucosa, a person becomes a source of viral infection. The virus is also transmitted from the mother of the child. Separately, the sexual route of transmission is distinguished. Type 2 herpes, also called genital herpes, is most often spread this way. Taking into account the peculiarities of sexual life, the types of the virus have recently become cross-functional. This means that rashes on the genitals can be caused by type 1 herpes, which was initially considered labial, and genital herpes, in turn, can cause blisters to appear in the mouth (nasolabial triangle, buccal area). Regardless of how the virus entered the body, it can immediately cause certain manifestations. This is not always a rash on the mucous membrane. For example, during primary infection, an increase in body temperature, weakness, and lack of appetite are often observed; symptoms may resemble the clinical picture of ARVI or influenza. Similar manifestations can be observed during exacerbation of an existing infection. It is very important to understand whether a primary infection or an exacerbation has occurred. This is especially important to know during pregnancy. Indeed, during the initial encounter with the herpes virus, its effect on the fetus can be extremely serious, since this significantly increases the risk of spontaneous abortion, severe damage to the fetus and newborn, and the formation of congenital pathologies of the fetus. In such cases, a decision may be made to terminate the pregnancy for medical reasons. Therefore, it is important to have information about whether a person is currently a carrier of herpes. For women, additional diagnostics are also carried out during pregnancy. The examination complex for determining herpes infection includes an analysis to detect class G antibodies to herpes type 1 and 2. Like all antibodies of this class, they indicate a past infection. During primary infection, these antibodies appear after class M antibodies and remain for life in one concentration or another. During an exacerbation of the disease, as in remission, they will also be observed, but either together with class M antibodies (exacerbation) or without them (outside the exacerbation). If it is important to determine the duration of infection, an additional study of the avidity index may be recommended.

Indications for the study:

· In the complex of diagnosing herpetic infection · Screening examination of people who are sexually active · Screening examination of married couples at the stage of pregnancy planning · Screening examination of pregnant women, mainly in the first trimester of pregnancy

Decoding the results:

· Positive result. In case of detection of Ig G to herpes virus type 1 or 2, it can indicate different types of infection - acute or chronic infection caused by type 1 herpes virus, acute or chronic infection caused by type 2 herpes virus. In such cases, it is important to evaluate the content of class M antibodies. If they are present, we can talk about the acute phase. If there is a need to clarify the type of virus, additional diagnostics may be prescribed. · Negative result. The absence of class G antibodies most often indicates the absence of a herpes infection caused by a type 1 or 2 virus. But do not forget that during primary infection in the first days of the disease, Ig G may not yet have time to be developed. In such cases, it is important to check Ig M, which will definitely be detected. Since absolutely everyone is susceptible to infection with herpes, at any period of life, if the result is negative (absence of antibodies of both classes), repeated examination may be indicated in the future if necessary.

It should be noted that children, elderly people, and people with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to infection. In turn, the herpes virus can affect the likelihood of contracting other infections, in particular, the risk of HIV infection increases.

IgG antibodies to HSV type 1 (determination of blood levels)

What is it for

The analysis allows you to determine infection with herpes simplex virus type 1 and assess the presence of immunity in the body to the virus.
In the population, Ig G class antibodies to herpes simplex viruses are detected in 90-97% of the adult population, including 90-95% of women of reproductive age.

There are two types of herpes simplex virus. HSV1 (HSV1)

It is transmitted mainly through oral contact, and causes oral herpes (symptoms of which can manifest as “cold sores”), but can also be transmitted orally-genitally, causing lesions in the anogenital localization.
HSV2 (HSV2)
is transmitted primarily through sexual contact, mainly causing the clinical manifestations of genital herpes.

Parenteral and transplacental routes of infection are also possible.

Primary infection caused by HSV poses a particular danger during pregnancy due to the high risk of spontaneous miscarriage and the development of severe damage to the fetus and newborn.

Determination of IgG antibodies to HSV is recommended when planning pregnancy, in the presence of specific clinical manifestations, etc.

IgG antibodies to HSV are included in the TORCH complex

, which includes the determination of IgG and IgM antibodies for infections considered dangerous for the development of the child and the course of pregnancy. Therefore, before or in the early stages of pregnancy, a comprehensive determination of antibodies to infections is desirable.

In the case of primary infection with herpes viruses, successive reactions are launched within 14–28 days, inducing the formation of specific immunity. B lymphocytes first produce IgM with little specificity and a large contact surface. At the beginning of the primary infection, highly specific low-avidity (loosely binding to the antigen) IgG is detected, and later more advanced high-avidity, highly specific IgG is produced. Next, memory B cells are formed, which, upon repeated contact with the antigen, are able to activate other clones in a short time to produce IgG. IgM and low-avidity IgG during primary infection are detected from 4-6 days from the onset of clinical manifestations to 2 months with a peak at the 2nd week. High-avidity IgG appears from 10-14 days, their concentration increases, reaching a maximum at 4-6 weeks of primary infection, then high-avidity IgG is detected in lower titers for many years. Low-avidity IgG can only be detected during primary infection. Relapse is not always accompanied by the appearance of antiviral IgM and an increase in IgG titers.

In accordance with the Draft Clinical Guidelines for the Diagnosis, Treatment and Prevention of Congenital Infection Caused by Herpes Simplex Viruses, a laboratory marker of primary herpes infection in a pregnant woman

is the detection in the blood serum of specific antibodies of the IgM class in an amount 2 or more times higher than the immune sensitivity threshold of the method in two studies performed with an interval of 14 days in the same laboratory using the same method (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), chemiluminescent immunoassay (CLIA)) provided that specific IgG is detected in the second study, exceeding the sensitivity threshold of the method with an avidity below 40%.

Laboratory marker of reactivation of latent HSV infection in a pregnant woman

is at least a single detection in the blood serum of specific antibodies of the IgM class in an amount 2 or more times higher than the sensitivity threshold of the method (ELISA, CLIA), or an increase in the value of specific IgG with high avidity (more than 50%) 4 or more times during 4 weeks.

Genital herpes

Herpes

Uterine cancer

Cervical cancer

Cystitis

18895 January 25

IMPORTANT!

The information in this section cannot be used for self-diagnosis and self-treatment.
In case of pain or other exacerbation of the disease, diagnostic tests should be prescribed only by the attending physician. To make a diagnosis and properly prescribe treatment, you should contact your doctor. Genital herpes: causes, classification, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment methods.

Definition

Genital herpes is a chronic recurrent disease of viral etiology, transmitted primarily through sexual contact. Herpes is considered an extremely common erosive and ulcerative disease of the genital organs - 500,000 new cases of complaints about this are registered every year in the world. In the Russian Federation, in persons over 18 years of age, infection with the virus that causes genital herpes is 17.2 cases per 10,000 population.

In 70% of cases, the disease is asymptomatic, which is why this pathology is widespread.
Causes of genital herpes
Genital herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV) types I and/or II. Herpes virus type I most often affects the mucous membrane of the mouth and is called oral (labial) herpes. When infected with this virus, the lesions are localized on the face in the lip area.

Herpes virus type II more often causes genital herpes, however, both types can provoke the development of pathology of oral and genital localization. For HSV type II, a relapsing course is more typical than for HSV I.

Routes of transmission of the virus in adults:

1. Sexual transmission is the most common route of transmission of genital herpes infection.
2. Household transmission of the virus is the rarest.
3. Autoinoculation is the transfer of the virus from infected areas of the mucosa to healthy ones by the patient himself.

Routes of transmission of the virus in children:

1. Transplacental - through the placenta from an infected mother to the fetus.
2. Perinatal – during the birth process.
3. Contact and household (if the rules of care and hygiene are not followed).
4. Autoinoculation (see above).

Risk factors for genital herpes infection

1. Promiscuous sex life without the use of barrier contraception (condoms).
2. Violation of personal and household hygiene rules.
3. Decreased immunity (due to the presence of long-term chronic diseases, unbalanced nutrition, exposure to frequent stress, sleep disturbances).

Classification of the disease

1. The first episode of the development of clinical symptoms of genital herpes.
2. Recurrent herpetic infection.

By localization:

1. Infection of the genitourinary organs.

• in men,
• among women.

1. Infection of the rectum and perianal skin.

Along the flow they distinguish:

1. Herpes with a typical clinical picture.
2. Atypical course.

When the virus enters through damaged skin or mucous membranes at the site of penetration, it actively multiplies, which has its own clinical manifestations.
If the immune system copes with the virus at this stage, then immunity and carriage of the virus are formed, which does not exclude relapse of the disease when the body’s protective functions are weakened.

If the body does not have the resources to resist HSV, then the virus penetrates the internal organs and fixes on them. With a decrease in immunity, other viral infections, or during exacerbations of chronic diseases, HSV from the organs again enters the blood and spreads throughout the body with its current.

Symptoms of genital herpes

During primary infection, the incubation period ranges from 1 to 10 days, and clinical manifestations last from 18 to 24 days with an increase in symptoms over the course of a week. Before the occurrence of lesions, prodromal symptoms appear in 50% of patients - paresthesia, burning sensation in the genital area, neuralgia in the gluteal, inguinal femoral areas, dysuria - and last up to 24 hours. Subsequently, viral damage to the epithelium manifests itself in the form of vesicles on an erythematous background with further characteristic resolution (formation of crusts). Symptoms of general intoxication characteristic of any viral infection - malaise, weakness, low-grade fever, headache - develop, as a rule, during primary infection, and with relapse they are minimal.

Non-primary genital herpetic infection is less pronounced: the duration of clinical manifestations is up to 15 days, asymptomatic virus shedding is less common, and the duration of desquamation of the damaged epithelium is only 4-5 days.

Rashes on the genitals and/or in the perianal area are always vesicular in nature, the contents are transparent, the base of the vesicles is hyperemic (red); can be multiple or single.

The affected area of ​​the mucous membrane is swollen. In men, the most common localization of rashes is the scrotum, penis, pubis, perineum, and perianal area.

In women - clitoris, vagina, vulva, pubis, cervix, perianal area. In the case of a secondary (usually bacterial) infection, purulent and mucopurulent discharge appears.

In case of exacerbation of genital herpes, there is pain during sexual intercourse.

Diagnosis of genital herpes

Diagnosis of this disease is based on the characteristic clinical picture of the rash and the detection of viral DNA in the blood or in discharge from affected tissues.
It is necessary to take blood tests to confirm infection with the herpes virus and determine the activity of the process, to detect the DNA of the virus in the ejaculate, prostate secretions, in scrapings of cells of the urogenital tract, as well as in scrapings from the conjunctiva, skin, nasal mucosa, and oropharynx.

What do the test results mean?

A negative result indicates the absence of antibodies to herpes viruses types I and II, which is possible if the body has not previously been in contact with the virus. Also, antibodies are not detected if little time has passed after infection and the body has not yet had time to produce IgG class immunoglobulins. A positive result indicates a current or past infection. If the result is questionable (borderline antibody level), it is recommended to be tested for IgM antibodies to herpes simplex virus types I and II and carry out a control test for IgG after a few weeks.

Research method - Chemiluminescent immunoassay

Material for research - Blood serum

Herpes (Antibodies to HSV 1.2 IgG, Herpes Simplex Virus Antibody 1.2 IgG, HSV 1.2 IgG) is a viral disease characterized by a characteristic rash of grouped blisters on the skin and mucous membranes, caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). HSV is a DNA virus from the Herpesviridae family. There are two types of herpes simplex virus. They are characterized by various biological and epidemiological features. HSV-1 causes infections of the mucous membranes of the eyes, mouth, and nose and is one of the causes of severe sporadic encephalitis in adults. HSV-2 is characterized by anogenital lesions (so-called urogenital herpes).

The herpes simplex virus is transmitted by airborne droplets and sexually; it is also characterized by vertical transmission from a pregnant woman to the fetus. In advanced chronic cases or in cases of immunodeficiency, the herpes virus HSV-1 and HSV-2 can affect the eyes (herpetic keratitis), brain (herpetic encephalitis), and internal organs. Testing for herpes during pregnancy is simply necessary, because During pregnancy, especially in the first trimester, when the main organs and systems of the fetus are formed, primary infection of the mother can become fatal to the fetus. In this case, the risk of threatened miscarriage and miscarriages increases threefold, and the development of deformities in the fetus is possible. When infected with the herpes simplex virus in the second trimester, the risk of congenital anomalies of the fetus increases, such as congenital viral pneumonia, retinal pathology, microcephaly, and heart defects. There is a high probability of developing miscarriage. During childbirth, passing through the mother's infected genital tract, the child can become infected with herpes, especially if during pregnancy the woman experiences an exacerbation of genital herpes, and the rashes are localized on the cervix or in the genital tract.

As with all TORCH infections, during herpes infection a person produces antibodies, which significantly reduce the likelihood of disease progression and generalization of the process, and the virus most often manifests itself only when immunity is reduced (as, for example, HSV-1 during a cold). In people who are seronegative (lack of antibodies to herpes simplex viruses) and have never been infected, primary infection occurs. Secondary infection is the activation of latent infection or reinfection in seropositive patients. Most people infected with the herpes simplex virus are asymptomatic, so serological diagnosis is necessary.

IgG antibodies are formed 2–3 weeks after infection with HSV and after a few months their titer decreases significantly. In patients with relapse of the disease, the IgG antibody titer often does not increase. A final diagnosis of acute herpetic infection is possible only after isolating the virus by culture. However, serological blood testing for herpes provides valuable additional information when screening for “high-risk” groups, such as pregnant women.

Interpretation of test results is for informational purposes only, is not a diagnosis and does not replace medical advice. Reference values ​​may differ from those indicated depending on the equipment used, the actual values ​​will be indicated on the results form.

If a questionable result is obtained, the analysis must be repeated after one to two weeks.

A negative result in a blood test for herpes can be regarded as the absence of infection, but acute infection with HSV-1 and HSV-2 is still possible, which can occur without the development of antibodies for 2-3 weeks. If HSV infection is clinically suspected, upon receipt of a negative test result for herpes, it is necessary to repeat the test no earlier than after one to two weeks. Seroconversion from a negative result to a positive result may occur as the infection progresses. Changes in IgG antibody titer during a current herpes infection are unlikely.

Unit of measurement: Unit

Reference values:

• < 0.9 – negative result
• 0.9 – 1.1 – the result is doubtful
• ≥ 1.1 – positive result

Herpes Simplex Virus 1/2, IgG

This is the detection of immunoglobulins G to the herpes simplex virus of the first and second types, which are indicators of the presence of a herpes viral infection.

Synonyms Russian

Herpes virus, herpes simplex virus type 1 and 2, detection of herpes by IgG antibodies.

English synonyms

Herpes Simplex Virus, Type 1 and Type 2, HSV-1 or HSV-2 IgG, HSV-1, HSV-2, HHV1, HHV2.

Research method

Solid-phase chemiluminescent enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (“sandwich” method).

What biomaterial can be used for research?

Venous, capillary blood.

How to properly prepare for research?

Do not smoke for 30 minutes before the test.

General information about the study

The most common types of viruses are the first and second ones. They are contagious and contribute to the formation of small blisters on the mucous membranes, which burst, forming open wounds. With HSV-1, the blisters appear mainly around the mouth and in the oral cavity, while HSV-2 usually affects areas around the genitals.

The herpes simplex virus can be contracted through skin contact, contact with blisters, and sometimes even in the absence of visible lesions.

HSV-2 is most often transmitted through sexual contact, however, infection with HSV-1 herpes can also occur, for example, through oral sex. According to WHO, from 50% to 80% of the adult population of developed countries are infected with herpes type 1 and about 20% with herpes type 2. Because symptoms are often subtle, 90% may not even be aware of their infection.

In the case of primary infection, painful blisters usually form at the site of infection after two weeks, which usually resolve after four weeks. They appear on the genitals, around the anus, on the buttocks or thighs, after which they can burst. You may also experience flu-like symptoms, such as chills and sore throat.

However, blisters with herpes do not always form. Sometimes symptoms of the disease are so mild that they go unnoticed or are mistaken for something else, such as insect bites or allergies. After entering the body and spreading, the herpes virus remains in a latent form. With stress or other diseases that lead to a decrease in immunity, it can become active again. In most cases, herpes simplex is not harmful to health, but it can cause serious illnesses: neonatal herpes (if a child becomes infected during childbirth from a mother infected with genital herpes) and encephalitis. They can lead to serious incurable neurological diseases and even death.

The following factors increase the risk of contracting herpes:

• diseases that suppress the immune system (for example, HIV/AIDS),
• organ transplantation.

There are antiviral drugs that suppress the spread of herpes, and also shorten the duration of the acute phase of the viral infection and alleviate the symptoms of the disease.

Antibodies are produced to fight infection. The formation of IgG to the herpes simplex virus begins a few days after the appearance of IgM. The concentration of IgG in the blood initially increases for several weeks, then falls, and then stabilizes. When re-infected with herpes, it increases much faster - already in the first days of infection. After an illness, small amounts of IgG remain in a person until the end of life, which, however, does not provide one hundred percent protection against re-infection.

What is the research used for?

• As an auxiliary study to confirm the diagnosis for symptoms of herpetic lesions (ulcers, blisters on the mucous membranes) or neonatal herpes.
• To screen certain groups of people, such as those who are sexually active, potential recipients infected with the AIDS virus, or those who have previously been exposed to HSV infection.

When is the study scheduled?

• When examining persons who have been in contact with HSV patients.
• During preparation for pregnancy and when monitoring it.

What do the results mean?

Reference values

S/CO ratio (signal/cutoff): 0 - 0.9.

A positive result means the presence of IgG antibodies to HSV-1 or HSV-2, indicating either an active or past herpes virus infection.

A negative result indicates a low probability of acute herpes viral infection, and also indicates that the body has not previously been in contact with the herpes simplex virus. However, immediately after infection, when sufficient antibodies have not yet been developed, the result may be false negative. In this case, an additional IgM test and a repeat IgG test after a few weeks are recommended.

What can influence the result?

The following can reduce the concentration of antibodies:

• antiviral therapy,
• immunodeficiency.


Important Notes

• Herpes is most dangerous for newborns and for patients with weakened immune systems.
• Herpes increases the risk of contracting HIV infection and can make HIV-infected patients even more infectious by increasing the amount of immunodeficiency virus in their blood.

Also recommended

• Herpes Simplex Virus 1/2, IgM
• Herpes Simplex Virus 1/2, DNA [real-time PCR]
• Herpes Simplex Virus 1/2, DNA [real-time PCR]
• Herpes Simplex Virus 1/2, immunofluorescence
• Human Papillomavirus of high carcinogenic risk (types 16, 18, 31, 33, 35, 39, 45, 51, 52, 56, 58, 59), DNA genotyping [real-time PCR]

Who orders the study?

Dermatologist, infectious disease specialist, gynecologist, urologist, pediatrician.