Herpes blood tests and PCR DNA test

by Lia
(Honolulu, Hawaii)

I was told that even if this devise can remove the virus that it will still show that you had it through a regular blood test. And to me that seems to be the same thing as saying you still have it. The reports I've heard say that the only way to tell if the virus is still with you is through a PCR DNA test and I understand that they take fluid from your spine for that. I am not looking forward to that.

Answer

I guess you are right. Because the PCR is still relatively new to both patients and doctors. A PCR can be done on blood but its uncertain, more reliable when done on spinal fluid. A Gynaecologist or GP merely collects spinal fluid. The tests are done by a pathologist at a pathology lab.

As far as the spinal taps go, the most common form of anesthesia used in childbirth is the "Block", where a local anesthetic is injected into the spinal cord with safety. If a drug can be injected into the spine, a small amount of CSF fluid can be removed with safety as well. Remember that one uncomfortable procedure could set your mind at ease for a lifetime. You can watch this video on the actual procedure here.