Skip to content

Herpes Simplex Virus 1 Immunoglobulin G (IgG) Antibody, Serum

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the presence of antibodies in your blood that your immune system produces in response to the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), which can cause cold sores and other infections.

Quick summary

["IgG antibodies help your body fight past infections and provide long-term immunity."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
14088-9
Short code
Deprecated HSV1 IgM Titr CSF IF
Synonyms
Deprecated HSV1 IgM Titr CSF IF
Category
chemistry
Sample
csf
Container
Sterile tube
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
if
CPT
82784
Specimen volume
1-2 mL
Stability
Immediate analysis required, Refrigerated: 1h
Hemolysis max
200
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What Does This Test Measure?

The test detects IgG antibodies specific to HSV-1, indicating whether your immune system has encountered this virus in the past. These antibodies are produced after an initial infection and can remain in your blood for years.

Why Might You Need This Test?

Doctors may order this test if you have symptoms of HSV-1 infection (such as cold sores), a history of cold sores, or if you’re being evaluated for recurrent infections. It can also help confirm exposure to the virus if symptoms are unclear.

What Does a Positive Result Mean?

A positive result means your immune system has likely been exposed to HSV-1 at some point, suggesting past infection. However, it does not confirm whether you currently have an active infection.

What Does a Negative Result Mean?

A negative result means your body may not have produced detectable IgG antibodies to HSV-1, which could indicate you’ve never been exposed or the test was taken too early after exposure.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

IgG Antibody to HSV-1

Frequently asked questions

Why was I asked to provide a blood sample for this test?
Blood is the best specimen for detecting IgG antibodies because antibodies circulate throughout your body. This test helps determine if your immune system has encountered HSV-1, even if you don’t currently have symptoms.
Can I still get a cold sore if I have a positive HSV-1 IgG test?
Yes, even with a positive IgG test, you may still experience cold sores because HSV-1 can remain dormant in your body. However, IgG antibodies help your immune system manage future outbreaks.
Does this test show if I have an active HSV-1 infection?
No, this test only measures past exposure. For diagnosing an active infection, your doctor may recommend additional tests like viral culture or PCR testing, which look for the virus itself in active symptoms.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy