Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) Culture from Specimen Shell Vial
This test checks for the presence of herpes simplex virus (HSV) in a sample collected from your body, often to diagnose infections like cold sores or genital herpes.
["A viral culture helps identify if HSV is causing an infection and guides treatment decisions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 43695-6
- Short code
- HHV Spec Shell Vial Cult
- Synonyms
- HHV Spec Shell Vial Cult
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- shell-vial-culture
- 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 sores, pain, or unusual discharge in the mouth, genitals, or anus. It could also be used if you have recurrent outbreaks, a new infection, or after exposure to someone with HSV.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may be asked to clean the affected area gently with mild soap and water before providing a sample. Avoid using ointments, creams, or antibiotics on the area unless instructed otherwise.
How the Test Is Performed
A healthcare provider will collect a sample from the affected area using a sterile swab. The swab is placed in a special container (shell vial) to preserve the virus for culture. The sample is then sent to a lab for growth and identification of HSV.
What Happens During Testing
The lab will grow the virus in a controlled environment to see if HSV multiplies. Results typically take 3–14 days, depending on the lab’s process. If HSV is detected, it confirms the infection and helps determine the type (HSV-1 or HSV-2).
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Positive results confirm HSV infection, which can guide treatment options like antiviral medications to reduce symptoms and outbreaks. Negative results mean no active HSV was detected in the sample at the time of testing, but HSV may still be present without symptoms (latent infection).
Short name
HSV Culture
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results from this test?
Can I take antibiotics or antiviral medications before the test?
Is there any risk or discomfort with this test?
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