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Herpes Simplex Virus 1 (HSV-1) DNA in Serum/Plasma by Nucleic Acid Amplification Probe

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

This test detects the presence of genetic material from the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) in your blood. It helps determine if you have an active infection or have been recently exposed.

Quick summary

["This test helps diagnose or monitor HSV-1 infections in your bloodstream."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
44868-8
Short code
HSV1+2 DNA Vag Ql NAA+probe
Synonyms
HSV1+2 DNA Vag Ql 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 order this test if you have symptoms like fever, sore throat, or unusual rashes that could suggest an HSV-1 infection. It may also be used in research or clinical settings to track viral load or exposure in specific contexts.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may have a blood sample drawn from a vein in your arm, similar to other routine blood tests. If you’re on blood-thinning medication, let your provider know.

What the Test Results Mean

A positive result means HSV-1 genetic material was found in your blood, indicating possible active infection or recent exposure. A negative result means no detectable genetic material was found at the time of testing.

Common Uses of This Test

This test is primarily used in research or specialized clinical settings to study HSV-1 dynamics, monitor viral shedding, or assess exposure in high-risk populations (e.g., healthcare workers, immunocompromised individuals).

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

While HSV-1 is common and often asymptomatic, detecting it in the blood can be critical in certain cases—such as diagnosing severe infections (e.g., encephalitis), evaluating immunocompromised patients, or guiding research studies. Results should always be interpreted by a healthcare provider in the context of your symptoms and medical history.

Short name

HSV-1 DNA Test

Frequently asked questions

Will this test show if I have HSV-1 symptoms?
No. This test detects HSV-1 genetic material in your blood, which may appear even if you don’t have obvious symptoms. Symptoms (like sores or fever) are usually evaluated separately with other tests.
Can I get this test at my doctor’s office?
This test is typically performed in specialized labs or research settings. Your provider may refer you to a lab that conducts nucleic acid amplification tests (like PCR) for HSV-1 DNA.
Does this test require fasting?
No fasting is required. Blood is drawn at any time of day, similar to other routine blood tests.
  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