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Herpes simplex virus 2 : a boon to develop other sexually transmitted infections
Shimpi Chopra1, Pushpa Devi1, Bimla Devi1
1Department of Microbiology, Government Medical College, Amritsar.
Journal of the Indian Medical Association
|January 31, 2014
Summary
Genital herpes (HSV2) is common and often asymptomatic, increasing STI risk. Early detection and treatment in all patients, even without symptoms, are crucial for reducing transmission.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Virology
- Public Health
Background:
- Genital herpes, caused by herpes simplex virus 2 (HSV2), is a prevalent sexually transmitted infection (STI).
- HSV2 infection is a significant risk factor for acquiring other STIs, including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and syphilis.
- Many HSV2 infections are asymptomatic, complicating diagnosis and increasing transmission potential.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the seroprevalence of HSV2, syphilis, and HIV among attendees of a sexually transmitted infection (STI) clinic.
- To evaluate the diagnostic utility of detecting HSV2 IgM antibodies.
- To understand the prevalence of co-infections among individuals with genital herpes.
Main Methods:
- A study was conducted with 170 individuals attending an STI clinic.
- Sera were tested for HSV2 IgM antibodies using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).
- Samples were also screened for HIV and syphilis.
Main Results:
- HSV2 IgM antibodies were detected in 15.88% (27/170) of individuals.
- Syphilis was identified in 7.65% (13/170) and HIV in 7.06% (12/170).
- Notably, 37.04% of HSV2-positive patients lacked genital ulcer complaints. Co-infections were common: 29.63% with HIV, 22.22% with syphilis, and 7.41% with both.
Conclusions:
- A significant portion of genital herpes cases are asymptomatic, highlighting the need for broader screening.
- Early detection and management of HSV2, particularly in asymptomatic individuals, are vital to curb transmission.
- Addressing HSV2 infection is critical for reducing the overall burden of STIs and co-infections.
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