Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 Immunoglobulin G Antibody (IgG) - Fluid
This test measures the presence of antibodies to herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) in your blood. Antibodies are proteins your immune system makes in response to infection.
["This test helps determine if you’ve ever been exposed to HSV-1, even if you don’t currently have symptoms."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 31066-4
- Short code
- HSV1 IgG Fld-aCnc
- Synonyms
- HSV1 IgG Fld-aCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 82784
- 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, pain, or unusual rashes that could be caused by HSV-1. It may also be used to check for past exposure in people with recurrent cold sores or genital herpes, or in certain high-risk groups.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. The process usually takes a few minutes. If you’re using blood drawn from a catheter, you may not need an additional draw.
What the Test Results Mean
A positive result means your immune system has detected HSV-1 antibodies, suggesting past infection. A negative result means no detectable antibodies were found, but this doesn’t rule out past exposure. Results can vary based on timing since infection and immune response.
Common Reasons for Testing
This test is often part of a broader evaluation for recurrent cold sores, recurrent genital herpes, or in cases where HSV-1 infection is suspected but other tests are inconclusive.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Positive results indicate exposure to HSV-1, which can help guide treatment decisions. For example, if you have recurrent cold sores, this test can confirm past infection and help manage symptoms. It’s important to note that this test alone doesn’t diagnose active infection—it only shows past exposure. If you’re concerned about current symptoms, other tests or clinical evaluation may be needed.
Short name
HSV-1 IgG Antibody (Serum/Plasma)
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results from this test?
Can I have this test if I’m pregnant?
What does a positive HSV-1 IgG result mean for my health?
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