Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 and Type 2 Antibody Pattern Serology (Qualitative)
This test checks for antibodies against Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) types 1 and 2, which can help determine past or current infection exposure.
["Assessing past HSV exposure through antibody detection."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 13505-3
- Short code
- HSV1+2 Ab pattern Ser-Imp
- Synonyms
- HSV1+2 Ab pattern Ser-Imp
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 17
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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 rashes that could be related to HSV. It may also be used to confirm a diagnosis in cases where symptoms are unclear or to monitor immune response in certain conditions.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample, usually drawn from a vein in your arm. The test involves minimal discomfort and typically takes a few minutes.
What the Test Results Mean
Results are qualitative (positive or negative) and indicate whether your body has produced antibodies against HSV types 1 and 2. Positive results suggest past exposure, but they do not confirm active infection. Results may also show patterns of reactivity that can help identify specific types of antibodies.
Common Reasons for Testing
This test is often used to diagnose herpes infections when symptoms are present, to rule out other conditions, or to assess immune response in individuals at higher risk for HSV-related complications.
Reference range
NCBI: NSE 0-17 ng/mLN/A
No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test helps differentiate between past exposure to HSV and current infection. While antibodies indicate prior infection, they do not always correlate with active disease. Patterns of antibody reactivity can also provide clues about the timing and type of exposure, which may be important for managing certain health conditions or guiding preventive measures.
Short name
HSV Antibody Pattern Test
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results from this test?
Can I have my blood drawn if I’m pregnant?
What if my test results are positive for HSV antibodies?
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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy