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Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 Immunoglobulin G Antibody (IgG) - Serum

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

This test measures the presence of antibodies in your blood that your immune system produces in response to exposure to herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), the virus responsible for oral herpes (cold sores).

Quick summary

["This test helps determine if you’ve been exposed to HSV-1, even if you don’t currently have symptoms."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
49848-5
Short code
HSV1+2 IgG Ser Ql IB
Synonyms
HSV1+2 IgG Ser Ql IB
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ib
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 like sores around your mouth or lips, recurrent cold sores, or if you’ve been exposed to someone with HSV-1. It can also be used to check for past infection in people without active symptoms, such as in certain research or screening contexts.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll typically provide a blood sample from a vein in your arm. If you’re concerned about needles, let your healthcare provider know so they can offer alternatives.

What the Test Results Mean

A positive result means your body has produced antibodies against HSV-1, indicating past exposure. A negative result suggests you haven’t been exposed or haven’t developed immunity yet. Results alone don’t confirm active infection—your provider will consider symptoms and other factors.

Common Causes of Positive Results

A positive test result is most common in people who have had cold sores or oral herpes in the past. It can also appear in people who have been exposed to the virus but haven’t developed symptoms yet.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

IgG Antibody to HSV-1

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get results from this test?
Results are usually available within a few days to a week, depending on the lab’s processing time. Your healthcare provider will contact you once they have the results.
Can this test be used to diagnose an active cold sore?
No, this test alone cannot diagnose an active cold sore. It only shows if you’ve been exposed to HSV-1 in the past. If you suspect an active infection, your provider may recommend other tests or clinical evaluation.
Does this test differentiate between HSV-1 and HSV-2?
No, this test specifically measures antibodies to HSV-1 only. If you’re concerned about HSV-2 (which causes genital herpes), a separate test would be needed.
  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