Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 Antibody, Qualitative (IgG) – Serum
This test detects antibodies to the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), which can help identify past or current infection with this common virus.
["This test helps determine if your body has ever been exposed to HSV-1, which can cause cold sores or other infections."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 109554-6
- Short code
- HSV1+2 DNA Msmt Amn
- Synonyms
- HSV1+2 DNA Msmt Amn
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- fluid
- Container
- Sterile tube
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 2-5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 300
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What Does This Test Measure?
The test looks for specific antibodies (IgG) produced by your immune system in response to HSV-1. These antibodies indicate whether your body has encountered the virus at some point, even if you don’t currently have symptoms.
Why Might Your Doctor Order This Test?
Your doctor may recommend this test if you have recurring cold sores, symptoms of infection, or if you’re at higher risk for HSV-1 exposure (e.g., due to immune conditions or sexual history). It’s also sometimes used in screening for certain health conditions.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample from a vein, usually in a doctor’s office or lab. The sample is drawn into a tube containing an anticoagulant to prevent clotting.
What to Expect After the Test
You may experience mild bruising, soreness, or swelling at the injection site. Apply ice if needed. The test results are typically available within a few days.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
HSV-1 Antibody Screen (IgG)
Frequently asked questions
A positive result means your body has produced antibodies to HSV-1, suggesting past infection. This doesn’t always mean you’re currently infected, but it confirms exposure. A negative result means no detectable antibodies were found, indicating no prior exposure or very low levels.
A positive result indicates your immune system has likely encountered HSV-1 before, which may explain recurring cold sores or other symptoms. It doesn’t confirm active infection but suggests a history of exposure.
No, this test specifically looks for antibodies, which are markers of past infection. To diagnose an active herpes outbreak, your doctor may use other tests or clinical evaluation.
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