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Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 and Type 2 Antibody Screening (Serum)

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

This test detects antibodies to herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2, which can help identify past or current infection with these viruses.

Quick summary

["This screening helps determine if you’ve been exposed to herpes viruses that may cause cold sores or genital herpes."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
44480-2
Short code
HSV1+2 Ab Ser Ql
Synonyms
HSV1+2 Ab Ser Ql
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
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

What This Test Measures

The test looks for antibodies produced by your immune system in response to herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2. Antibodies are proteins your body makes to fight infections. If you have been exposed to either virus, your immune system will produce these antibodies over time.

Why It’s Done

Doctors may order this test if you have symptoms like sores, rashes, or if you’ve had close contact with someone who has herpes. It can also be used to screen for past infection before certain procedures or in certain medical situations.

What to Expect

A small blood sample is taken from your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but it usually doesn’t cause much discomfort. The sample is sent to a lab for testing.

Possible Results

A positive result means your body has detected antibodies to HSV-1 or HSV-2, suggesting past exposure. A negative result means no detectable antibodies were found in this test. Results don’t always indicate active infection.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

HSV Antibody Screen (Serum)

Frequently asked questions

This test helps diagnose past herpes infections and guides treatment decisions. It can also be used for research, screening, or to assess immune response.
A positive antibody result does not always mean you have an active outbreak. It only indicates you’ve been exposed to the virus at some point. If you have symptoms, your doctor may recommend further testing.
If your test is positive, your doctor may recommend additional testing to determine if you have an active infection, especially if you have symptoms like sores or pain.
Antibody levels can change over time. If you have a follow-up test later, results may differ from the initial screening, even if you haven’t been exposed recently.
This test is not used to diagnose active herpes outbreaks. If you have symptoms, see your doctor for evaluation, which may include clinical assessment or other tests.
This test uses serum, which is the liquid part of blood after clotting. The sample is typically processed and analyzed using immunoassay methods to detect antibodies.
  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