Herpes is a problematic condition that results in eruption of sores and blisters in the affected areas. The symptoms in this condition differ as per the different cases. These symptoms may include itching, tingling and burning of affected areas followed by eruption of blisters and sores in those areas. The blisters are filled with fluid and eventually they form dry scabs and heal. Herpes blood test is one of the ways in which this condition can be diagnosed.

The herpes condition cannot be completely cured as the virus is active on a person’s skin for some period of time. So after some period of activity the virus goes back and lies dormant for some time. For this purpose proper diagnosis of this condition can be done with the help of some tests including the herpes blood test.

In herpes an outbreak of the virus typically lasts for 3 to around 14 days in the case of genital herpes. A person having cold sores normally experiences an outbreak for around 8 to 12 days. Herpes blood test is used to diagnose this condition particularly when there are no visible symptoms. The blood test identifies the presence of the herpes antibodies. However it is important to understand that the virus may not be detected in every single case.

A positive herpes blood test is also not a definite indication that the person has herpes. It takes several weeks for a person to get the antibodies that are detected by a test. After a period of two weeks to three months following the exposure to this virus the antibodies may develop. Some of the blood tests may detect the antibodies earlier while others may take longer to detect them.

Even though a herpes blood test may detect the virus such a test cannot identify whether it is the HSV-1 or the HSv-2 virus. To identify the kind of virus a person has to get a specific serologic test done. Such a test can distinguish between the type 1 and type 2 virus. Most the kits that are commercially available cannot identify the different types even though such claims may be made.

With a herpes blood test presence of herpes antibodies is an indication that the herpes simplex infection is latent within the body. In those patients who have sores and other outward signs of an infection a viral culture test can help in determining the infection. The infected sample tissue can also help in identifying this condition.

An advantage of a herpes blood test is that it can be done even when no symptoms associated with this condition are present. Likewise a blood test does not require swabbing of the lesion in a person and so such a test can be conducted even after the symptoms go away. A blood test has greater specificity and sensitivity as compared to a culture test. Timing is most crucial while conducting a blood test and if the test is done too soon then the antibodies may not be detected.