Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 Immunoglobulin G (IgG) Antibody, Titration
This test measures the amount of antibodies your body produces in response to exposure to herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), commonly known as oral herpes or cold sores. Antibodies indicate past or current infection.
["Your body’s immune response to HSV-1 can be tracked with this test to assess past exposure or ongoing immunity."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 39571-5
- Short code
- HSV1+2 IgM Titr CSF
- Synonyms
- HSV1+2 IgM Titr CSF
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- csf
- Container
- Sterile tube
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 82784
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL
- Stability
- Immediate analysis required, Refrigerated: 1h
- Hemolysis max
- 200
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like sores, pain, or recurrent infections in the mouth or face, or if you’ve been exposed to someone with HSV-1. It can also help evaluate immune function or diagnose conditions linked to past infections.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample, usually drawn from your arm. The test checks for antibodies in your serum or plasma, which are part of your immune system’s defense against viruses.
What the Results Mean
Positive results suggest you’ve been exposed to HSV-1 at some point, meaning your immune system has created antibodies to fight it. Negative results indicate no detectable antibodies, meaning either you’ve never been exposed or the test was taken too soon after exposure.
Common Reasons for Testing
This test helps diagnose recurrent cold sores, assess immune health, or evaluate conditions where HSV-1 exposure might play a role, such as certain neurological disorders.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
High levels of HSV-1 IgG antibodies often mean you’ve had the virus in the past and may have lifelong immunity. However, the virus can still remain dormant and occasionally reactivate. This test doesn’t determine if you’re currently active with symptoms but helps track long-term exposure.
Short name
HSV-1 IgG Antibody Level
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean for my health?
How long does it take to get results from this test?
Can I get this test if I’m pregnant?
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