STD Basic Test Panel

This test screens for herpes, an STD that can cause painful sores around the mouth or genitals. The test checks for both types of herpes: herpes type-1 most often causes oral herpes and herpes type-2 most often causes genital herpes, although herpes type-1 is responsible for an increasing proportion of genital infections. Although there is no cure for herpes, treatment can help relieve the symptoms and prevent future episodes. This test may be useful if you: - want to determine if you have developed antibodies for either HSV-1 or HSV-2 - are a person with recurrent genital symptoms - have a prior clinical diagnosis of genital herpes without laboratory confirmation - are a person whose partner has known genital herpes - are a person with multiple sex partners - are a person with a HIV infection - are a man who have sex with men Please note: Herpes Simplex Virus – 2 serologic screening is not recommended among the general population. Additionally, if an active lesion (sore) is present, please seek further testing from your doctor as direct detection of virus (by methods such a culture, PCR, or DFA) is preferred. About 70% of adults have been infected by HSV-1 and have antibodies against the virus. About 20 to 50% of adults will have antibodies against the HSV-2 virus. HSV stays in your system once you have been infected. It may be "asleep" (dormant), and cause no symptoms, or it may flare up and cause symptoms. This test cannot tell whether you are having a flare-up. Positive results can be seen in persons who have never had symptoms. In addition, a negative result does not rule out infection with HSV. This test does not require fasting. After your results are ready, you’ll have the option to talk with an independent physician. Together, you’ll come up with a personalized plan that best supports your health. If medication is a part of the plan, your prescription can be sent to the pharmacy of your choice.