The Herpes Simplex Virus Type II (HSV-2) IgG test is a blood test used to detect antibodies that the body produces in response to an HSV-2 infection. IgG (Immunoglobulin G) is a specific antibody that the immune system creates after exposure to the virus. This test identifies the presence of these antibodies, indicating past infection with HSV-2.
While the HSV-2 IgG test is commonly used to detect previous infections, another test, the HSV-2 IgM test, can be used to detect recent infections. Unlike IgG, IgM antibodies appear shortly after the infection and indicate an active or recent exposure to the virus.