Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 (HSV-1) DNA Detection in Lower Respiratory Tract Specimen by Nucleic Acid Amplification Probe
This test checks for the presence of Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 (HSV-1) genetic material in your respiratory secretions, such as mucus from your throat or lungs. It helps determine if you have an active infection.
["This test helps diagnose active herpes infections in your respiratory system."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 92864-8
- Short code
- HSV 1+2 DNA Pnl Lower resp NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- HSV 1+2 DNA Pnl Lower resp 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 Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like coughing, sore throat, or breathing difficulties that could be linked to a viral infection. It’s also used in certain cases to confirm suspected herpes infections in respiratory samples, especially in immunocompromised individuals or those with recurrent infections.
How the Test Works
The test uses a special probe to detect the genetic material (DNA) of HSV-1 in a sample collected from your lower respiratory tract, such as sputum or induced sputum. This is done through a process called nucleic acid amplification testing (NAAT), which amplifies and identifies the virus’s genetic material.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A healthcare professional will collect a sample from your respiratory tract, often by inducing coughing to produce mucus or using a swab. The sample is then sent to the lab for testing.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this test. You may be asked to avoid smoking or certain medications that could interfere with the results, but this is rare for respiratory samples.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
HSV-1 Lower Respiratory Tract PCR
Frequently asked questions
This test is crucial for diagnosing active HSV-1 infections in the respiratory tract, which can cause severe illness, especially in vulnerable populations. Early detection allows for prompt treatment and management of symptoms, reducing the risk of complications.
What does a positive result mean? A positive result indicates the presence of HSV-1 genetic material in your respiratory tract, suggesting an active infection. This does not necessarily mean you will develop symptoms, but it does warrant further medical evaluation and possible antiviral treatment.
How long will it take to get results? Results are typically available within 24 to 48 hours, depending on the laboratory’s processing time.
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