Herpes simplex type 2 virus (HSV-2) is a thymus dependent antigen whose immunity
ID: 178246 • Letter: H
Question
Herpes simplex type 2 virus (HSV-2) is a thymus dependent antigen whose immunity is both cell mediated and humoral as well. A person may be diagnosed positive for this infection by demonstrating the presence of anti-HSV-2 antibodies in the serum or by the isolation of virus from a skin lesion. Suppose that you did successfully isolate a virus from a lesion of regular sufferer of genital herpes; however, the serum contains no detectable antibodies against HSV-2.
In full detail, explain this discrepancy
Explanation / Answer
Herpes simplex type 2 virus is the common cause of genital ulcer in industrialised countries. Lesions caused by HSV-2 are below the waist. Primary infections can be seen from a lesion of regular sufferer. It is prior exposure to virus. Secondary infections which are considered to be terrible can be detected in serum when the virus enters into bloodstream and antibodies are produced by immune system.