Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 IgG Antibody, Serum (Quantitative)
This test measures the level of antibodies in your blood that your immune system produces in response to the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), which can cause cold sores and other infections.
["This test helps assess past exposure to HSV-1 and supports diagnosis or monitoring of related conditions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 110969-3
- Short code
- HSV1+2 IgG Msmt Ser
- Synonyms
- HSV1+2 IgG Msmt Ser
- 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
Why This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms of HSV-1 infection (such as cold sores, fever blisters, or neurological symptoms), if you’ve had close contact with someone infected, or if you’re being evaluated for recurrent infections. It can also be used to confirm a diagnosis when other tests are inconclusive or to monitor immune response in certain conditions.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll typically have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood from a vein. The process takes about 5 minutes, and you may feel a brief pinch. If you’re nervous, let your provider know—they can offer ways to make it more comfortable.
What the Test Results Mean
If your test shows detectable HSV-1 IgG antibodies, it means your immune system has likely encountered the virus before, even if you don’t currently have symptoms. This doesn’t indicate active infection but confirms past exposure. If levels are very low or absent, it suggests no prior exposure.
Common Conditions Monitored
This test is often used to diagnose or rule out HSV-1 infections, especially in cases where symptoms are unclear or recurrent. It may also be part of broader evaluations for conditions like recurrent herpes labialis (cold sores), encephalitis (brain inflammation), or in immunocompromised individuals where HSV-1 can cause severe complications.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Positive results indicate past exposure to HSV-1, which can inform treatment decisions, especially if symptoms persist or recur. It’s important to note that HSV-1 IgG alone doesn’t distinguish between past infection and current infection. If active symptoms are present, your provider may recommend additional testing (e.g., viral culture or PCR) to confirm active infection and guide treatment.
Short name
HSV-1 IgG Antibody
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
Can this test detect an active HSV-1 infection?
What if my test shows no HSV-1 antibodies?
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