HSV testing is used to detect the presence of the herpes simplex virus (HSV). Herpes simplex virus [HSV] II IGG indicates chronic infection. This test is done when the patient has symptoms of an infection with the herpes simplex virus, such as blisters in the genital area, mucous membranes or the brain. Herpes simplex virus or HSV (family Herpesviridae) is a contagious virus that infects humans. Herpes is caused by two strains of the herpes simplex virus, type 1 (HSV-1) and type 2 (HSV-2). HSV-2 is more common and usually manifests itself in the genital and anal area. HSV is very contagious and is transmitted through contact with an infected person who produces it and sheds the virus. It can be spread by direct contact with sores and sometimes by contact with the oral and genital areas of people with chronic HSV infection, who are between episodes of sores. Infection with the herpes virus is categorized by distinct disorders based on the site of infection such as infection of the face, throat, and mouth, hands, eye, the central nervous system, brain, buttocks or anal area and the genitals. Reactivation of a latent oral or genital HSV infection may be triggered by a fever, menstruation, emotional stress, or suppression of the immune system (for example, by a drug taken to prevent rejection of an organ transplant). An episode of the HSV infection can develop after physical trauma, such as a dental procedure or overexposure of the lips to sunlight. Often, the trigger is unknown. Once infected, the virus remains in the body for life.