Introduction: Herpes simplex type 2 (HSV-2) is the main curse of Genital Herpes (GH) infection worldwide with developing countries having larger proportions. Little is known about its diagnosis using the synergy techniques of Immunoglobulin G (IgG) and Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for its accurate diagnosis. This study focuses on carrying out the synergy (concurrent) between serology and PCR techniques for diagnosing GH caused by HSV-2.
Methods: A total of 388 pregnant women were sampled using a well-structured questionnaire, a self-collected vaginal swab for PCR shedding detection and 10 ml of blood collected for serological assay. Data were analyzed using statical packages for Social sciences. P value were kept at <0.05.
Results: A total 85 (21.9%) of the 388 sampled women were positive for Herpes simplex type 2 by PCR shedding techniques. Majority of the samples 345 (88.9%) were positive to serology assay. 57 (16.5%) of all 345 seropositive respondent are also shedders of the virus by PCR assays, p <0.05. Conversely, 28 (65.1%) of all 43 seronegative patients were shedders of HSV-2.
Conclusion: The synergistic technique of Serology and PCR should be considered incorporated as detection techniques for accurate diagnosis as this will assist in prompt management of genital herpes infection.
Recurrent Meningitis and Encephalitis Associated with Herpes simplex Type 2: Demonstration by Polymerase Chain Reaction
