Difficultés d'interprétation de la sérologie herpétique

Several methods are available for the diagnosis of HSV-1 and HSV-2 infections. Direct diagnosis is generally preferred. Serological testing is however frequently needed. It includes non specific serology which detects IgG or IgM antibodies anti-HSV without any distinction between HSV-1 and HSV-2 and type specific serology which detects either HSV-1 specific antibodies or HSV-2 specific antibodies. Only the non specific serology may get reimbursed in France. Current performances of HSV type specific serological assays allow to reconsider their use in diagnostic strategies. Several commercial kits with CE approval are now available. The choice of the technique requires a particular attention, assays including recombinant antigens and those validated on different populations by Scientifics being recommended. Medical history and targeted population are also required for the results' interpretation.