Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 DNA (Genomic) in Saliva by Nucleic Acid Probe
This test detects the presence of genetic material from Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 (HSV-1) in your saliva. It helps identify if you have an active infection or have been exposed to the virus.
["This test can help diagnose or monitor HSV-1 infections in saliva samples."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 95140-0
- Short code
- HSV 1+2 DNA Pnl Amn NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- HSV 1+2 DNA Pnl Amn 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
Why This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like sores or lesions around your mouth, lips, or genitals, or if you have recurrent cold sores. It may also be used in research or specific clinical settings to study HSV-1 exposure.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You will provide a saliva sample, which is typically collected by swabbing your inner cheek or spitting into a container. This is usually done in a lab setting or at home if instructed.
What the Test Results Mean
A positive result means the virus’s genetic material was found in your saliva, indicating possible active infection or recent exposure. A negative result means the virus was not detected in this sample. Results should be interpreted by a healthcare provider in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
Common Causes of Positive Results
Positive results can occur during active outbreaks of cold sores, after initial infection, or in some cases of latent infection where the virus is reactivated.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test is primarily useful for diagnosing HSV-1 infections in saliva, especially in cases where other tests or symptoms suggest exposure. It can help guide treatment decisions, monitor viral load, or assess research studies. However, it is not a definitive test for HSV-1 infection alone and should be used alongside clinical judgment and other diagnostic criteria.
Short name
HSV-1 DNA Saliva Test
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean for my health?
Can this test detect if I’ve had HSV-1 before?
How often should I get this test if I have recurrent cold sores?
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