Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 DNA (Quantitative) in Saliva by Nucleic Acid Amplification Probe
This test detects the presence of genetic material from the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) in your saliva. It helps determine if you have an active infection or have been exposed recently.
["This test can help diagnose or monitor HSV-1 infections, especially in cases where symptoms are unclear or recurrent."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 16130-7
- Short code
- HSV1 DNA Spec Ql NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- HSV1 DNA Spec 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 Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like sores, fever blisters, or recurrent cold sores, or if you’re experiencing unexplained oral or genital sores. It may also be used to confirm exposure in certain high-risk situations, such as newborns born to infected mothers or individuals with frequent outbreaks.
What the Test Involves
You’ll provide a saliva sample (like spitting into a container) instead of a blood draw. The sample is then tested for HSV-1 DNA using a specialized lab technique that amplifies tiny amounts of genetic material for detection.
What the Results Mean
A positive result means HSV-1 DNA was found in your saliva, suggesting an active infection. A negative result means no detectable genetic material was found at the time of testing, but HSV-1 can still be present in low levels or dormant. Results may vary depending on the stage of infection.
How Results Are Used
These results help guide treatment decisions, such as antiviral medications to manage symptoms or reduce transmission. They may also inform decisions about close contacts, especially in healthcare or childcare settings.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
HSV-1 is a common virus that causes cold sores and can also affect other parts of the body. While most people have it without symptoms, it can reactivate periodically. This test is particularly useful for diagnosing active infections, especially in cases where traditional symptoms (like sores) are not present or are unclear. It’s also critical in preventing spread to others, especially vulnerable groups like newborns or immunocompromised individuals.
Short name
HSV-1 DNA in Saliva
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results from this test?
What does a positive result mean for my health?
Can I still have the virus even if my test is negative?
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