Question:
I went to my doctor today and asked for a type-specific blood test to determine if I have HSV1 or HSV2.

First, he tried to tell me he couldn't do a blood test if I didn't have an OB. Then he admitted he could order the blood test but of course it would always come out positive. I re-iterated that I understand I would always test positive for herpes but was trying to determine the type. We basically got in an argument with me insisting that I be tested, he finally ordered the test but basically said it wouldn't give me the information I was looking for and wasn't medically necessary.

When I got to the lab, I tried to clarify with the tech what I wanted the test for to make sure I wasn't just getting tested to see positive vs. negative. She wasn't sure, but at least didn't pretend to know everything and attempted to get some answers for me.

Basically, I was ordered a "herpes zoster" test (I'm not sure if that is type specific), and IgG and IgM.

I just have no confidence in my doctor (when I asked him how he knew a lump in my breast was a cyst he replied "because I said so"), and it is impossible to find a good doctor in this city that accepts new patients.

I'm worried I won't get the answer I'm looking for from him.

Venting over.

Answer:
Oh my god - 'because I said so'. WTF (I picked up 'WTF' from our American friends on here - I do LIKE that!).

There isn't anything I can say that will help - but just wanted to say that his conduct is totally out of order for sooooo many reasons.

He actually lied for god's sake. Disgraceful.

Good luck in finding a new doctor.

Answer:
I have had similar troubles with doctors. It sucks. Rrrrrr. :mad:

Answer:
Zoster is the test for chicken pox and if you've had them you'll test positive.

I think you want the test for Herpes Simplex Virus (1 & 2) IgG. The test result for the IgM is useless.

Answer:
Update: Went to get my results this week. As it turns out, the province I live in refused to do the herpes blood test as it is very expensive and they deemed it medically unecessary. As my doctor put it, almost everyone tests positive anyways. He told me to come back when I had an OB.

Well, I'm going back sooner than I expected because I am afraid I just spread it to my eyelid. Although I don't expect a diagnosis or any helpful information from him really. I'm more frustrated than ever. No wonder this thing spreads.

Answer:
Do you have the option of paying for the testing yourself if it is not covered by your health provisions?

Answer:
My doctor actually told me It didn't matter which I had, there was no difference in treatment and that was all she would tell me. I went to Planned Parent for a complete STD test. They at least tested me and called with the results but I still have not been able to talk to a doctor about treatment.