Frequently Asked Questions

What differentiates HerpeSelect from other methods?

Known for its leadership in type-specific HSV testing, Focus Diagnostics has been involved in the global research and development of type-specific herpes diagnostic products for well over a decade. Today, HerpeSelect® is recognized as a world leader in type-specific HSV serology testing.

How long after infection will HerpeSelect detect IgG antibodies?

Recent studies show that HerpeSelect can detect HSV IgG antibodies as quickly as 3 weeks after onset of symptoms. It is important to note that each individual may seroconvert at different rate leading to earlier or delayed detection. Some patients do not seroconvert for 6 months or longer.

What about HSV IgM testing?

The presence of IgM antibodies in HSV infections is difficult to interpret and may be confusing because unlike IgG, IgM is not type-specific. The presence of IgM may indicate a true primary infection however the test has low sensitivity and negative predictive value (NPV).(10) Additionally, the presence of IgM may be due to the reactivation of a latent HSV-1 or HSV-2 infection. For this reason, IgM testing is not recommended, but may offer information about a particular patient’s antibody response.

What confirmatory testing is necessary for HerpeSelect ELISA, Immunoblot and/or Express?

All results must be correlated with clinical history, epidemiological data, and other data available to the attending physician in evaluating the patient.

How long does it take to perform HerpeSelect testing?

HerpeSelect Express Rapid HSV-2 results are available in about 15 minutes.

The turn around time for laboratory based tests such as the HerpeSelect ELISA and Immunoblot will vary depending on the laboratory testing site, frequency of test batching, sample collection and distance from laboratory. Check with your laboratory for expected time to results.

Is HerpeSelect reimbursed by payors?

CPT codes for herpes type-specific serology have been established. Please check with your local Medicare branch or private payers for exact reimbursement amounts.

Medicare Part B
HSV-1    CPT Code 86695
HSV-2    CPT Code 86696

How do I know if the laboratory I use offers the HerpeSelect test?

Many laboratories throughout the U.S. use the HerpeSelect test. Quest Diagnostics for example, offers the test using the HerpeSelect brand name on the laboratory requisition form. Other laboratories offer the test using a more generic method name such as HSV-1 or HSV-2 ELISA. Ask to speak to the director of the infectious disease laboratory to verify that their type-specific serology meets these specifications:

• Type-specific for HSV-1 and HSV-2 .
• Kit insert specifies gG based technology versus crude antigen.
• For in vitro diagnostic use with sexually active adults and expectant mothers.

For the names of laboratories that are currently using HerpeSelect contact Focus Diagnostics’ HSV Information Center at (800) 505-0536.

How much does a HerpeSelect test cost?

Please contact Focus Diagnostics to be put in contact with the appropriate territory manager that can provide you pricing information.

Phone: 800.838.4548 or 714.220.1900

Email: DxCS@focusdx.com

Focus Diagnostics products are distributed worldwide.