Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 Antibody, Genital Region, Qualitative (IgG)
This test detects antibodies to the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) in your blood, which your immune system produces in response to past infection. It helps confirm whether you’ve been exposed to HSV-1, even if you don’t currently have symptoms.
["This test checks for past exposure to HSV-1, often linked to genital herpes, without requiring active symptoms."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 5844-6
- Short code
- HSV1 Ag Genital Ql IF
- Synonyms
- HSV1 Ag Genital Ql IF
- 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 Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have a history of genital herpes, recurrent cold sores, or if you’re being evaluated for sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It can also be used to assess immune response after vaccination or treatment for HSV-1.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. A small blood sample will be drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but it usually takes only a few minutes. If you’re pregnant or have a bleeding disorder, let your provider know before the test.
What the Test Results Mean
A positive result means your body has produced antibodies to HSV-1, indicating past exposure. A negative result suggests you likely haven’t been exposed recently. However, this test alone cannot determine if you currently have active herpes or cold sores.
Common Reasons for Testing
This test is often used to diagnose or rule out HSV-1 infection in individuals with symptoms like genital sores, pain, or recurrent outbreaks. It’s also useful for screening in high-risk groups or after exposure to confirm immunity status.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
While this test confirms past HSV-1 exposure, it doesn’t replace other diagnostic methods for active herpes. If you suspect current infection, your provider may recommend additional tests, such as viral culture or PCR, to identify active viral activity. Antibody tests are typically used for surveillance, research, or assessing immune response over time.
Short name
HSV-1 Antibody (Genital)
Frequently asked questions
Can this test detect active herpes?
How long after exposure might I get a positive result?
Does this test differentiate between HSV-1 and HSV-2?
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