Human Herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) Antibody, Serum (Qualitative Immunoassay)
This test checks for the presence of antibodies to Human Herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6), a virus that can cause infections in both children and adults. Antibodies indicate your immune system has recognized and fought off the virus.
["This test helps determine if you’ve been exposed to HHV-6 or if your immune system is responding to it."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 109866-4
- Short code
- HHV6 DNA Msmt Bld
- Synonyms
- HHV6 DNA Msmt Bld
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 3 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
The test detects specific antibodies against HHV-6 in your serum. These antibodies are proteins produced by your immune system in response to infection. The test is qualitative, meaning it only tells you whether antibodies are present or not, rather than measuring their exact amount.
Why It Might Be Ordered
Doctors may order this test if you have symptoms like fever, rash, or fatigue that could be linked to HHV-6 infection, especially after organ transplant or chemotherapy. It can also be used to monitor immune responses in certain conditions.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The blood is processed to separate the serum, which is then tested for HHV-6 antibodies using an immunoassay method. This method detects the presence of antibodies without providing a specific concentration.
What the Results Mean
A positive result means your immune system has detected and responded to HHV-6. A negative result suggests no detectable antibodies, meaning either you’ve never been exposed or your immune system hasn’t yet produced antibodies to the virus.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
HHV-6 is commonly found in healthy individuals and often causes mild or asymptomatic infections. However, in immunocompromised patients (such as those with HIV/AIDS, undergoing chemotherapy, or after organ transplants), it can cause severe illness. This test helps identify past exposure or active infection to guide treatment and monitor immune function.
Short name
HHV-6 Antibody Test
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results from this test?
Can I have a sample of my blood drawn at home for this test?
What are the common symptoms of HHV-6 infection?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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