Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 DNA (Serum) – Quantitative Probe
This test measures the amount of herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) genetic material in your blood serum using a specialized DNA probe method.
["Assessing viral load helps guide treatment decisions for active or latent HSV-1 infections."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 49386-6
- Short code
- HSV1+2 DNA # BAL NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- HSV1+2 DNA # BAL NAA+probe
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- probe-amp-tar
- 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 detects and quantifies the presence of HSV-1 DNA in your serum. This genetic material is part of the virus and can indicate whether an active infection is present or if the virus is active in your body despite being dormant.
Why It Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms of HSV-1 infection (such as sores, fever, or neurological symptoms), if you have a history of recurrent infections, or if you’re being evaluated for latent HSV-1 status before certain procedures (e.g., organ transplants). It can also help monitor treatment effectiveness.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The serum portion (liquid part) of the blood is separated and sent to the lab for testing using a molecular probe technique to detect and measure HSV-1 DNA.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is typically needed. You may want to avoid alcohol for 24 hours before the test to ensure accurate results. Inform your provider about any medications you’re taking, as some may affect blood tests.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
HSV-1 DNA levels can indicate the severity and activity of an infection. High levels may suggest an active outbreak, while lower levels could mean the virus is less active or dormant. This information helps guide antiviral therapy, especially in immunocompromised individuals or those at high risk for complications.
Short name
HSV-1 DNA Quantification
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results from this test?
Can this test detect HSV-1 in other body fluids besides blood?
What does a positive result mean?
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