How Long Does A Herpes Test Take
Usually the symptoms of herpes caused by both the Herpes simplex virus HSV1 and HSV2. The virus HSV1 causes cold sores mostly on the lips. The sores can also appear on the back and other parts of the body. While the HSV2 virus affects the genital areas of both men and women. In this type of herpes infection sores appear in vaginal area of women and on the penis of men. The first type of herpes virus can be passed from an infected individual to another individual through kissing, sharing utensils or coming in close physical contact. While the HSV2 virus usually spreads through intimate sexual contact. In order to treat herpes it is important to know how long does a herpes test take, because the proper treatment usually starts only after the tests are confirmed.
An experience doctor can identify the symptoms of herpes with the help of a close physical examination. However, to confirm the diagnosis several tests are carried out. Test facilities for the herpes virus are not easily available everywhere. Again how long does a herpes test take also depends on the efficiency of the laboratory performing the tests. It is best to consult your doctor to find out which laboratory you should opt for. A blood test is the most reliable method to confirm the presence or absence of the herpes virus, although samples of the crust of wounds may also be taken. Although if the wounds are old ones the test results may not be completely reliable.
Another reason why it is necessary to enquire at the laboratory as to how long does a herpes test take, is that you may be required to repeat some tests, if the doctor is not satisfied with the results. For instance, if in a clinical examination a doctor suspects herpes and it does not show up in the laboratory tests, you will be asked to take the tests again.
The most common test for the presence of herpes is the culture test. In this test a sample of liquid or cells is taken from the patient. Some times in spite of the presence of herpes virus in the body the tests may come out to be negative. This is the reason that herpes test cases are asked to repeat the tests after some time. A culture test usually takes 2-3 days for the rapid viral test, while it can take up to two weeks in order to perform a standard culture test. During this time you will have to endure the discomfort and manage the symptoms with the help of a doctor. This is why it is necessary to know how long does a herpes test take, so that you can be mentally prepared.
Another test performed to detect herpes is the herpes virus antigen detecting test in which samples taken from the wound are examined microscopically to ascertain the presence of herpes antigens. This test usually takes one day while the PCR test takes three days. In the PCR test it is possible to differentiate between the HSV1 and HSV2 virus. Hence how long does a herpes test take depends on the type of test being conducted.
