Herpes Simplex Virus 1 Antibody, Serologic Test (Serum)
This blood test checks for antibodies to the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), which can help determine if your immune system has ever been exposed to this virus.
["This test helps identify past infection with HSV-1, often linked to cold sores or oral herpes."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 13324-9
- Short code
- HSV1 Ab Ser IF-aCnc
- Synonyms
- HSV1 Ab Ser IF-aCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- if
- 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 Matters
Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) is a common virus that can cause cold sores around the mouth and nose. While most people who get HSV-1 have no symptoms, some may experience outbreaks. This test helps doctors understand if you’ve been exposed to the virus, even if you don’t currently have symptoms.
How the Test Works
A small blood sample is taken from your arm and sent to a lab. The lab uses an immunoassay method to detect antibodies specific to HSV-1, which your immune system produces after exposure.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this test. You may have a slight bruise or soreness at the injection site, but this usually goes away quickly. If you’re pregnant, have a bleeding disorder, or take blood-thinning medications, let your doctor know before the test.
What the Results Mean
If the test is positive, it means your body has produced antibodies to HSV-1, suggesting past exposure. A negative result means no detectable antibodies were found, indicating no prior exposure or very low levels. Results don’t confirm active infection but can guide further evaluation if needed.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test is primarily used to diagnose past infection with HSV-1, which can be important for certain medical conditions, such as evaluating immune function or assessing risk for complications in specific patient groups. It’s not used to diagnose active herpes outbreaks, which would require different testing methods.
Short name
HSV-1 Antibody Screen/Confirm
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results from this test?
Can this test detect active herpes outbreaks?
Is there any risk or discomfort associated with this test?
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