Herpes Simplex Virus 1 Antibody, Total (IgG + IgM) in Serum
This test measures the total antibodies your body produces in response to the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), which can cause cold sores and other infections. It helps determine if you’ve been exposed to the virus.
["This test helps assess past or current infection with HSV-1, a common virus that can affect the mouth or skin."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 43032-2
- Short code
- HSV1 Ab Titr CSF
- Synonyms
- HSV1 Ab Titr CSF
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- csf
- Container
- Sterile tube
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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 cold sores, recurrent mouth sores, or if you’ve been exposed to someone with HSV-1. It may also be used to confirm a diagnosis in cases where symptoms are unclear or to monitor immune response in certain conditions.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab for testing.
What the Test Results Mean
Positive results indicate you have antibodies against HSV-1, suggesting past infection. The presence of antibodies doesn’t always mean you’re currently infected or contagious. Negative results mean no detectable antibodies were found, which could mean you’ve never been exposed or the test was taken too early.
Common Reasons for Testing
This test is often used to diagnose past HSV-1 exposure, especially in individuals with recurrent cold sores or those at higher risk of infection. It can also be part of screening in certain clinical settings, such as pregnancy or for immunocompromised individuals.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
While this test confirms exposure to HSV-1, it doesn’t indicate the current state of your infection. If you have active symptoms like cold sores, other diagnostic tests (such as viral culture or PCR) may be needed to determine active infection and guide treatment. Antibody levels alone don’t predict the severity or recurrence of symptoms.
Short name
HSV-1 Antibody Test
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
Can I get this test if I’m pregnant?
Does this test show if I’m currently contagious?
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