Blood Serology & CLIA

Confidential Genital Herpes (HSV-2) Testing in Kathmandu

Highly sensitive automated CLIA / ELISA serology testing for Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 (HSV-2). We test for both IgG and IgM antibodies to accurately detect recent exposures as well as established, long-term infections.

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HSV-2 IgG & IgM Panel

Simultaneously tests for both recent (IgM) and past/established (IgG) Genital Herpes infections using automated CLIA / ELISA.

Rs 1,800

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Understanding Your Antibodies

IgM (Early Response): Appears 1-2 weeks after a new infection, then gradually fades away.
IgG (Established Immunity): Takes 12-16 weeks to fully develop, but remains in the blood for life. A positive IgG is the gold standard proof of past exposure.

* Turnaround Time: Same Day for Lab Visits.

Understanding Genital Herpes (HSV-2)

Genital herpes is a common sexually transmitted infection caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 (HSV-2). The virus enters the body through the mucous membranes during sexual contact. Once inside, it establishes lifelong latency in the nerve cells (sacral dorsal root ganglia). While the virus cannot be completely cured, it is highly manageable.

Type 1 vs. Type 2: While HSV-1 is primarily responsible for cold sores around the mouth (orolabial herpes), HSV-2 is the primary cause of genital herpes. However, due to oral-genital contact, both types can infect either area. Our type-specific blood test clearly distinguishes an HSV-2 infection.

Testing Window Period

Antibodies to HSV-2 take time to develop. Testing too early can yield false negatives.

HSV IgM (Early Response): Becomes detectable 1 to 2 weeks after initial exposure. Often fades after a few months.

HSV-2 IgG (Established Immunity): Reaches fully reliable detectable levels at 12 to 16 weeks post-exposure. Once positive, it remains in your blood for life.

Signs & Recurrence

Many HSV-2 infections are completely asymptomatic. When symptoms do occur:

Primary Outbreak: Painful blisters or ulcers around the genitals or anus, swollen lymph nodes, fever, and flu-like symptoms. Usually lasts 2-4 weeks.
Prodrome: Tingling, burning, or itching in the genital area hours or days before blisters actually appear.
Recurrence: Outbreaks can recur due to stress, friction, or lowered immunity, though they are usually milder and shorter than the very first outbreak.

Living with Herpes & Pregnancy Guidelines

Impact on Life & Relationships

Being diagnosed with HSV-2 can cause emotional distress, but it is a highly manageable skin condition. With proper counseling and daily suppressive antiviral therapy (like Valacyclovir), you can virtually eliminate outbreaks and significantly reduce the risk of transmitting the virus to a negative partner.

Pregnancy & Neonatal Risks

A primary (new) HSV-2 infection acquired late in pregnancy poses a high risk to the baby during delivery (Neonatal Herpes). If you have a known history of HSV-2, doctors typically prescribe suppressive antivirals starting at 36 weeks. If active sores are present during labor, a Cesarean section is performed to protect the newborn.

Confidential Medical Counseling

Clinical Care at Derma Clinic

If your HSV-2 IgG or IgM results return positive, you do not have to navigate treatment or disclosure alone. We are officially partnered with Derma Clinic (located in the same building). Their specialist venereologists provide compassionate counseling, outbreak management, and suppressive antiviral prescriptions.

Book Test Online Visit Derma Clinic

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between HSV IgG and IgM?

IgM antibodies are the body's first response, detectable within 1-2 weeks of a new infection. IgG antibodies take longer to develop (typically 12-16 weeks) but remain in your blood for life, indicating an established infection and long-term immunity.

What is the window period for a Genital Herpes test?

To avoid a false negative on the highly reliable IgG test, it is best to wait 12 to 16 weeks after the suspected exposure event. Testing before 6 weeks is often too early for IgG antibodies to form.

Does a positive HSV-2 result mean I can't have a normal sex life?

Not at all. While genital herpes cannot be permanently cured, it is highly manageable. With daily suppressive antiviral therapy (such as Valacyclovir), you can virtually eliminate outbreaks and significantly reduce the risk of transmitting the virus to your partner.