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Human Herpesvirus 6 IgG Antibody (Serum/Plasma)

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

This test measures the presence of antibodies against Human Herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) in your blood. Antibodies are proteins your immune system produces to help fight infections.

Quick summary

["This test helps determine if your immune system has ever been exposed to HHV-6, a virus that can cause infections like fever and rash."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
41496-1
Short code
HHV6 IgG Titr Ser
Synonyms
HHV6 IgG Titr Ser
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
8
Ref high
61
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
82977
SNOMED
3110003
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

What Does This Test Measure?

The test detects IgG antibodies, which are a type of immune protein that your body makes in response to an infection. IgG antibodies remain in your blood for a long time after the initial infection has passed, indicating past exposure to HHV-6.

Why Might You Need This Test?

Doctors may order this test if you have symptoms suggestive of HHV-6 infection, such as fever, fatigue, or rash, especially if you have a weakened immune system. It can also be used in research or clinical studies related to HHV-6.

Sample Collection and Preparation

A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The blood is then processed to separate the serum or plasma, which is tested for the presence of HHV-6 IgG antibodies using an immunoassay method.

What to Expect Before the Test

There are no special preparations needed for this test. You can eat and drink normally on the day of your test. If you are on blood-thinning medication, inform your healthcare provider before the test.

Reference range

Adult males: 8-61 U/L; Adult females: 5-36 U/LN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

HHV-6 IgG Antibody

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive result mean?
A positive result means your immune system has detected and responded to HHV-6 in the past. This does not indicate whether you are currently infected or if the virus is active. It simply shows your body has made antibodies against the virus.
Can this test be used to diagnose an active HHV-6 infection?
No, this test alone cannot diagnose an active HHV-6 infection. It only indicates past exposure. For diagnosing an active infection, additional tests or clinical symptoms would be considered.
Is there anything I should do if my test result is positive?
If your test result is positive, discuss it with your healthcare provider. They may recommend further evaluation if you have symptoms suggestive of an active infection or if there is a clinical need to assess your immune response to HHV-6.
  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