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Herpes Simplex Virus 1 Antibody, Skin (Qualitative)

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

This test detects antibodies to the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) in a sample taken from your skin. It helps determine if your immune system has ever been exposed to this virus.

Quick summary

["This test checks for past exposure to HSV-1, often linked to cold sores or oral herpes."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
31847-7
Short code
HSV1 Ag Skin Ql
Synonyms
HSV1 Ag Skin Ql
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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

What This Test Measures

The test looks for specific antibodies produced by your immune system in response to HSV-1. These antibodies indicate whether you have been exposed to the virus at some point, even if you don’t currently have symptoms.

Why It Might Be Ordered

Doctors may order this test if you have frequent cold sores, recurrent oral herpes, or if you’re investigating potential exposure to HSV-1 in a medical or research setting.

Sample Collection

A small sample of your skin is collected, often through a swab or biopsy. This is usually done in a doctor’s office or clinic.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may want to avoid taking antiviral medications for a few days before the test, as they could affect results.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

This test is primarily used to confirm past exposure to HSV-1 rather than diagnose active infection. It can help guide further evaluation, such as ruling out other conditions or assessing immune response.

Short name

HSV-1 Antibody Skin Test

Frequently asked questions

Will this test show if I currently have an active HSV-1 infection?
No, this test detects antibodies from past exposure, not active infection. If you suspect an active outbreak, your healthcare provider may recommend other tests.
How long will it take to get the results?
Results are typically available within a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the lab’s processing time.
Can I get this test at home?
No, this test requires a sample collected by a healthcare professional in a clinical setting.
  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