Can herpes test be negative with herpetic-looking blisters?

Question

Hi doctor,

I am a 37 year old male, who weighs 195 lbs, and I am 5.10 feet tall. I had blisters on my penis, so I went to a clinic. The doctor said that it appears to be herpes, but because I do not have pain, fever, or any other symptoms, he believed this was from friction. He told me to get HSV-1 and HSV-2 tests, which came back negative. However, I have read that this test may have been done too soon and my body might not have enough antibodies to detect the disease. Is this correct? If you have blisters from herpes, would not your body immediately have antibodies building up to fight the virus causing this, enough to register on the blood work? I am attaching a photo of the blisters.

Answer 1

Hi,

I am glad you chose icliniq for your medical-related queries.

I understand your concern and will try to help you with it.

I have seen the attached photo (attachment removed to protect patient identity). It appears to be herpes simplex lesions. But it may be due to any irritation or friction too. It may be due to HSV (herpes simplex virus) 1 or 2 if it is herpes. Yes, the antibodies may take few days to appear. The test also can come false negative in few cases. You can retest for HSV 1 and 2 IgM and IgG antibodies after 1 to 2 weeks. If you had exposure to herpes infected person, it could be more likely due to herpes. Continue the treatment as advised by your doctor.

Thank you for consulting me.

You can always reach me at icliniq.com.

Answer 2

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I read and understand your concern.

Pain, burning, irritation, fever, etc., need not be present in all patients. IgG appears late after few days or weeks. IgM appears first but later disappears. You can go for IgM and IgG antibodies for HSV-1 and 2 after two weeks. Herpes is known to recur. Hope for the best.

Looking forward to your response in order to help you.

Thank you.