Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 (HSV-1) DNA in Serum/Plasma by Nucleic Acid Amplification Probe
This test detects the presence of genetic material from the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) in your blood. It helps determine if you have an active infection.
["The test may help guide treatment decisions for HSV-1 infections."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 62470-0
- Short code
- HSV1 DNA # Mar NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- HSV1 DNA # Mar 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 Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like sores, fever, or other signs of an HSV-1 infection, especially if they appear in unusual places (e.g., mouth, eyes). They might also order it if you have a history of HSV-1 and are experiencing recurrent outbreaks or if you’re at risk for complications.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample, usually drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is collected in a tube and sent to the lab for testing.
What the Test Results Mean
A positive result means genetic material from HSV-1 was found in your blood, indicating an active infection. A negative result suggests no active infection is detected at the time of testing. Results can vary based on the stage of infection.
How the Test Works
This test uses a specialized probe to detect the DNA of HSV-1. It amplifies a small amount of genetic material to make it detectable, even in very low concentrations. This method is highly sensitive and can help identify infections that might not be detected by other tests.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
HSV-1 DNA testing is particularly useful for diagnosing active infections, especially in cases where symptoms are unclear or when other tests are inconclusive. It can help confirm infections in immunocompromised individuals or those with unusual presentations. Early detection can guide treatment to reduce symptoms and complications.
Short name
HSV-1 DNA Test
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
Can this test be used to diagnose a past HSV-1 infection?
How soon after infection can I expect 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