Question 1

What is Herpetic Keratitis?

Accepted Answer

Herpetic keratitis is a serious eye infection that affects the cornea and can lead to vision loss. It is caused by herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) or herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2). The Herpes Simplex Virus 1 and 2 (IgG) with Reflex to HSV-2 Inhibition test is the most important test for confirming viral exposure and guiding treatment.

Question 2

What causes herpetic keratitis?

Accepted Answer

Herpetic keratitis is caused by herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) or occasionally herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2). HSV-1 is the same virus that causes cold sores on the lips and face, and it can be transmitted to the eye through direct contact with infected saliva or lesions. Once the virus enters the eye, it infects the corneal tissue and can remain dormant in nerve cells, reactivating later during times of stress, illness, or weakened immunity to cause recurrent infections.

Question 3

What is the best test for herpetic keratitis?

Accepted Answer

The Herpes Simplex Virus 1 and 2 (IgG) with Reflex to HSV-2 Inhibition test is the most important blood test for herpetic keratitis because it detects IgG antibodies against both HSV-1 and HSV-2, confirming whether you have been exposed to these viruses. This test is particularly valuable because it includes reflex testing to accurately differentiate between HSV-1 and HSV-2, helping your doctor understand which specific virus strain is involved in your eye infection. While the primary diagnosis is made through eye examination by an ophthalmologist, blood testing provides crucial supporting evidence of viral infection and helps guide appropriate antiviral treatment decisions.

Question 4

When should I get tested for herpetic keratitis?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you experience eye pain, redness, blurred vision, sensitivity to light, or excessive tearing, especially if you have a history of cold sores or herpes infections. Testing is particularly important if you notice any unusual eye symptoms after a recent cold sore outbreak or if you have recurrent eye infections that keep coming back. Early detection through blood testing helps confirm the viral cause and allows your doctor to start antiviral treatment promptly to protect your vision and prevent serious complications like corneal scarring.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of herpetic keratitis?

Accepted Answer

Herpetic keratitis symptoms include eye pain, redness, blurred or cloudy vision, excessive tearing, and sensitivity to light. You might notice a gritty feeling in your eye, as if something is stuck in it, along with discharge or swelling around the eye. Some people develop characteristic dendritic ulcers on the cornea that look like tiny branches, which can only be seen during an eye examination. Symptoms typically affect one eye and may be accompanied by a history of cold sores or previous herpes outbreaks.

Question 6

Who is at risk for herpetic keratitis?

Accepted Answer

People who have had cold sores or oral herpes are at highest risk for herpetic keratitis, as the virus can spread from the mouth to the eyes. Contact lens wearers face increased risk due to frequent eye contact, especially if they touch their eyes after touching a cold sore. Individuals with weakened immune systems, those taking immunosuppressive medications, people under high stress, and anyone who has had previous episodes of eye herpes are also at greater risk for developing or experiencing recurrent herpetic keratitis.

Question 7

What happens if herpetic keratitis is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated herpetic keratitis can lead to permanent corneal scarring, which causes chronic vision problems or blindness. The infection can penetrate deeper layers of the cornea, causing stromal keratitis that results in clouding and opacification of the cornea. Repeated infections increase the risk of complications including glaucoma, chronic inflammation, corneal thinning or perforation, and ultimately the need for corneal transplant surgery. Each recurrent episode causes additional damage, making early diagnosis and treatment essential for preserving vision.

Question 8

Can herpetic keratitis be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Herpetic keratitis is primarily diagnosed through comprehensive eye examination by an ophthalmologist who looks for characteristic corneal ulcers and inflammation patterns. However, blood tests play an important supporting role by detecting IgG antibodies against HSV-1 and HSV-2, confirming viral exposure and helping differentiate herpetic keratitis from other eye conditions. The blood test results combined with eye examination findings provide a complete picture that helps your doctor understand your viral status and develop the most effective treatment plan to protect your vision.

Question 9

How is herpetic keratitis treated?

Accepted Answer

Herpetic keratitis is treated with antiviral medications, most commonly topical eye drops like trifluridine or ganciclovir gel applied directly to the infected eye. For more severe cases or deeper infections, oral antiviral medications such as acyclovir, valacyclovir, or famciclovir may be prescribed. Some patients require long-term suppressive antiviral therapy to prevent recurrent episodes, especially if they experience frequent outbreaks. Corticosteroid eye drops may be used cautiously in certain cases to reduce inflammation, but only under close ophthalmologist supervision as they can potentially worsen the infection.

Question 10

How can I prevent herpetic keratitis?

Accepted Answer

You can prevent herpetic keratitis by avoiding touching your eyes after touching cold sores or affected areas, and washing your hands frequently and thoroughly. Do not share towels, washcloths, eye makeup, or contact lenses with others, and replace eye cosmetics after any eye infection. If you have a history of cold sores, consider taking suppressive antiviral medication during high-risk periods like intense sun exposure or stress. Contact lens wearers should practice excellent hygiene, avoid wearing lenses during cold sore outbreaks, and never use saliva to wet contact lenses.

Question 11

What can I do at home for herpetic keratitis?

Accepted Answer

While home remedies cannot cure herpetic keratitis and medical treatment is essential, you can support healing by getting adequate rest to boost your immune system and applying cool, clean compresses to reduce eye discomfort. Wear sunglasses to protect your sensitive eyes from bright light, avoid rubbing or touching the infected eye, and maintain excellent hand hygiene. Take all prescribed antiviral medications exactly as directed, avoid wearing contact lenses until completely healed, and manage stress through relaxation techniques as stress can trigger viral reactivation. Always follow up with your eye doctor as scheduled to monitor healing progress.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Herpetic Keratitis Blood Test

What is Herpetic Keratitis?

What causes herpetic keratitis?

What is the best test for herpetic keratitis?

When should I get tested for herpetic keratitis?

References

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