Skip to content

Human Herpesvirus 6 Immunoglobulin G (IgG) Antibody, Serum

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

This test measures the presence of antibodies against Human Herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) in your blood. These antibodies indicate whether your immune system has been exposed to HHV-6, a virus that can cause infections.

Quick summary

["This test helps assess past exposure to HHV-6, which may be relevant for certain medical conditions or research purposes."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
51730-0
Short code
HHV6 IgG+IgM Ser-Imp
Synonyms
HHV6 IgG+IgM Ser-Imp
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
82784
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like fever, rash, or fatigue that could be linked to HHV-6 infection, especially if you have a weakened immune system. It may also be used in research or to monitor immune responses in specific clinical scenarios.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. It usually takes a few minutes, and you may feel a brief pinch. If you’re nervous, let your provider know so they can help.

What the Test Results Mean

A positive result means your body has produced antibodies against HHV-6, suggesting prior exposure. A negative result means no detectable antibodies were found at the time of testing. Results don’t indicate whether you’re currently infected.

Common Reasons for Testing

This test is often used in research studies, to evaluate immune responses in patients with certain conditions (like transplant recipients or those with HIV), or to investigate unexplained symptoms linked to viral infections.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

IgG Antibody to HHV-6

Frequently asked questions

Is there a normal range for this test?
No standard reference range is provided because this test is primarily qualitative (positive/negative). Results are interpreted based on clinical context rather than absolute values.
Can this test detect an active HHV-6 infection?
No, this test only measures antibodies, which indicate past exposure. To check for an active infection, other tests (like PCR) would be needed.
How long do results take?
Results are typically available within 1 to 3 business days, depending on lab processing times.
  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