How Is Herpes 2 Diagnosed?
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Symptoms
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Herpes is a viral condition that comes in two varieties. The first one is oral herpes, which is also called HSV-1, and it attacks the mouth. (The acronym "HSV" stands for herpes simplex virus.) In the case of HSV-2, or herpes 2 as it is sometimes called, the genitals are affected. This type is also referred to as simply genital herpes. Herpes 2 is transmitted through contact with the mouth or hands through sexual transmission. Some common symptoms that are seen with herpes 2 are open sores and swollen lymph glands in the throat and genital area. It is highly contagious and it can actually take weeks before it is even recognized.
Examination
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One of the first steps taken in diagnosing herpes is an examination by a doctor that includes the genital area. In males, he will inspect the scrotum, anus and penis for sores and blisters associated with herpes. He will also look for a discharge coming from the urethra and he may take a swab sample from this area or the anus to use for a test in the laboratory. When women are being checked, a doctore will examine the vagina, cervix, labia and anus for infections. Swabs might be taken in the anus and cervix for further evaluation in the laboratory as well. For both women and men, the physician will check the lymph nodes for swelling.
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Laboratory
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There are a few different laboratory tests that are done to diagnose herpes 2. Some examples of these are fluorescent antibody tests, virus cultures and polymerase chain reaction tests. These are all performed by examining a swab sample that was taken from oozing sores in the affected areas.
Serology
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The body has germ fighters inside it called antibodies. They are used to defend against colds, flus, infections and viruses. Another form of diagnosing herpes is through a procedure called serology. This process is done by taking a blood sample. The blood is examined for a build-up of antibodies specifically made by the body to fend off the herpes virus. However, it can take the body several weeks to build up antibodies if the infection is new.
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