Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 (HSV-1) IgG Antibody Index (Serum)
This test measures your body’s immune response to herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), a common virus that can cause cold sores or other infections.
["Assesses past exposure to HSV-1 through antibodies in your blood."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 101203-8
- Short code
- HSV1+2 IgG Index Ser+CSF-aCnc
- Synonyms
- HSV1+2 IgG Index Ser+CSF-aCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 82784
- 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 IgG antibodies specific to HSV-1, which develop after your body has been exposed to the virus. These antibodies indicate whether your immune system has encountered HSV-1 at some point, even if you don’t currently have symptoms.
Why It Might Be Ordered
Doctors may order this test to evaluate past exposure to HSV-1, especially in individuals with recurrent cold sores, those at higher risk of infection (e.g., immunocompromised patients), or in research or diagnostic contexts where understanding prior exposure is important.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The serum portion is separated and analyzed to measure the concentration of HSV-1-specific IgG antibodies using an immunoassay method.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may eat and drink normally, but inform your healthcare provider if you are on blood-thinning medications or have a history of bleeding disorders.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test is primarily useful for identifying past exposure to HSV-1 rather than active infection. Positive results suggest the body has mounted an immune response, but they do not indicate whether you currently have symptoms or active viral replication. It can be useful in certain clinical scenarios, such as assessing immune status or guiding preventive measures in high-risk individuals.
Short name
HSV-1 IgG Antibody Level
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
What does a high or low result mean?
Can this test be used to diagnose active HSV-1 infection?
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