Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 Genital Culture (Qualitative)
This test checks for the presence of the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) in a genital swab. It helps determine if you have an active genital infection caused by HSV-1.
["This test helps diagnose active genital herpes caused by HSV-1."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 44465-3
- Short code
- HSV1 Genital Ql Cult
- Synonyms
- HSV1 Genital Ql Cult
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- organism-specific-culture
- 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 Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like sores, blisters, or pain 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 someone with HSV-1.
How Is the Test Performed?
A healthcare provider will collect a sample from a sore or lesion in your genital area using a sterile swab. The swab is then sent to a lab for culture. The lab will grow the virus in a controlled environment to see if HSV-1 is present.
What Does a Positive Result Mean?
A positive result means that HSV-1 was detected in your sample. This indicates an active infection. It does not necessarily mean you have genital herpes, as HSV-1 can also cause cold sores around the mouth.
What Does a Negative Result Mean?
A negative result means that HSV-1 was not detected in the sample during this test. However, it’s possible to have HSV-1 without active symptoms, so further testing or monitoring may be needed.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
A positive HSV-1 culture confirms an active genital infection. This can guide treatment decisions, such as antiviral medications to reduce symptoms and outbreaks. It’s important to discuss your results with your healthcare provider, as they can provide personalized advice based on your health history and symptoms. If you have recurrent outbreaks, ongoing management may include preventive medications to minimize future episodes.
Short name
HSV-1 Genital Culture
Frequently asked questions
Will this test show if I have herpes?
What if I get a positive result?
Can I still have sex if I have a positive result?
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