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HERPES DIAGNOSIS

Herpes is an infectious disease that is caused by a virus named herpes simplex. This disease can be transmitted by contact with the infected area and by way of unsafe sex as well. Herpes includes two different types of strains and these include herpes simplex 1 and herpes simplex 2 viruses. Herpes diagnosis is done by physical examination along with some blood tests or laboratory tests.

The herpes simplex 1 causes cold sores in the regions around the mouth while the herpes simplex 2 virus results in blisters in the regions near the genital areas and the thighs. A clear herpes diagnosis is possible because of the presence of cold sores and blisters in this condition. The severity of all symptoms can be lessened with antiviral drugs that may be recommended by the doctors.

The herpes type 1 virus differs from the herpes type 2 strains even though these may look identical under an electron microscope. The body is able to recognize these viruses differently and thereby produce different antibodies for these viruses. Blood tests allow doctors to make the herpes diagnosis.

In some cases of herpes no visible symptoms may be present while in other cases there may be obvious symptoms that can help in making the herpes diagnosis. These symptoms include cold sores occurring in various locations such as mouth, lips, penis, vagina, thighs, buttocks and the anus. Swelling of lymph nodes in the groin area may also be observed and in some cases vaginal and penile discharge may also be experienced.

Herpes diagnosis can be done with a physical examination along with history of the case and laboratory tests. Physical examination and history allows doctors to determine how long the symptoms are experienced by the patients. It also helps the doctors to determine if the symptoms are similar to those experienced in cases of herpes. The laboratory tests are done so as to detect the virus using a swab from the skin lesions. Once a swab is rolled over the lesions it is sent for a culture test. Serology test can also be conducted to determine the presence of the virus.

A serology test is used in herpes diagnosis as it helps in identifying evidence of the immune system’s response to the infection. This evidence can be identified within the blood stream of a person. A blood test can help in detecting the antibodies within the blood. These antibodies are made so as to fight the virus and these can be identified even when there are no visible symptoms of this infection.