Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 (HSV-1) DNA Quantitative PCR in Genital Swab
This test detects the presence of the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) genetic material in a sample taken from your genital area. It helps determine if you have an active infection.
["This test helps diagnose genital herpes caused by HSV-1, a common viral infection."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 92872-1
- Short code
- HSV1 DNA Anogenital Ql NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- HSV1 DNA Anogenital Ql NAA+probe
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- probe-amp-tar
- 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 Is Done
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like sores, blisters, or unusual discharge in the genital area, or if you have recurrent outbreaks. It can also be used to confirm a diagnosis in cases where symptoms are unclear or if you have been exposed to HSV-1.
How the Test Works
The test uses a specialized laboratory technique called Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) to identify tiny amounts of HSV-1 DNA from a sample collected from your genital area. This method is highly sensitive and can detect the virus even when symptoms are not present.
Sample Collection
A healthcare provider will collect a sample by swabbing the affected genital area. The swab is then sent to a lab for testing. This process is quick and usually painless.
What to Expect After the Test
After the test, you will receive results from your healthcare provider. If the test is positive, it means HSV-1 DNA is present in your sample, indicating an active infection. If negative, the virus may not be detectable at this time or may be present in a different part of your body.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
A positive result indicates an active HSV-1 infection in the genital area. This can affect your health and may require treatment to manage symptoms, reduce outbreaks, and prevent complications. It is also important for sexual health, as HSV-1 can be transmitted during sexual contact. Proper management can help reduce the risk of spreading the virus to others.
Short name
HSV-1 Genital DNA Test
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
Can this test detect HSV-1 if I don’t have symptoms?
How long does it take to get the results?
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