Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 DNA Detection by Nucleic Acid Amplification Probe
This test checks for the presence of genetic material from the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) in your body fluids.
["It helps diagnose active HSV-1 infections or assess risk in certain situations."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 60461-1
- Short code
- HSV1 DNA # Spec NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- HSV1 DNA # Spec 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 order this test if you have symptoms like sores, fever, or neurological issues that could be linked to HSV-1 infection. It may also be used to confirm infection in people with no obvious symptoms or to monitor treatment response.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a sample of bodily fluid (often saliva or sometimes urine) depending on the clinical indication. Follow your provider’s instructions for sample collection.
What the Test Results Mean
A positive result means HSV-1 genetic material was detected, indicating active infection. A negative result means no detectable genetic material was found at the time of testing. Results don’t always show past infection—consult your provider for interpretation.
Common Uses and Limitations
This test is primarily used for diagnosing active HSV-1 infections, such as cold sores or genital herpes. It’s not a routine screening test for everyone. Results may not be available immediately and can vary based on sample type and testing conditions.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
HSV-1 DNA Test
Frequently asked questions
HSV-1 is a common virus that can cause infections like cold sores, oral thrush, or rarely, more severe conditions like encephalitis. Early detection helps guide treatment and management strategies, especially in high-risk individuals or those with compromised immune systems.
Results are typically available within 24 to 72 hours, depending on your lab’s processing schedule. Your healthcare provider will contact you with the final report.
Yes, if you suspect an HSV-1 infection despite a negative result, your provider may recommend retesting. Symptoms can vary, and testing timing may affect 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