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Herpes simplex virus type 2 serological testing and psychosocial harm: a systematic review
Kaile Ross1, Christine Johnston, Anna Wald
1Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98104, USA.
Sexually Transmitted Infections
|September 10, 2011
Summary
Herpes simplex virus (HSV) type 2 serological testing is generally safe. Most individuals without a history of genital herpes experience no lasting negative psychosocial effects from HSV-2 diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Psychology
- Public Health
Background:
- Serological testing for herpes simplex virus (HSV) type 2 is often not recommended for individuals without a history of genital herpes.
- Concerns exist regarding potential negative psychosocial sequelae following an HSV-2 diagnosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review empirical evidence on the psychosocial effects of HSV-2 serological testing in individuals without a prior genital herpes diagnosis.
Main Methods:
- A systematic search of eight electronic databases was conducted for studies published before March 2010.
- Included studies involved participants without a history of genital herpes who underwent HSV-2 serological testing and reported psychosocial assessments post-results.
- Unpublished materials were sought through conference abstracts and direct contact with senior authors.
Main Results:
- Seven of nine eligible studies found no persistent negative impact on mental health, sexual attitude, or satisfaction among HSV-2 positive individuals.
- Two studies reported negative impacts, including increased distress in some college students and perceived sexual undesirability up to one year post-diagnosis.
- Perceived severity of a genital herpes diagnosis decreased after testing among those who tested positive.
Conclusions:
- HSV-2 diagnosis via type-specific serological testing does not typically cause long-term psychosocial harm in individuals without a known history of genital herpes.
- Clinicians should not be deterred by concerns of sustained emotional impact when considering HSV-2 serological testing for appropriate patients.
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