Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 Immunoglobulin G Antibody (Serum)
This test measures the presence of antibodies against Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 (HSV-1) in your blood. These antibodies indicate past exposure to the virus, which causes cold sores.
["Past exposure to HSV-1 may be detected through antibody testing."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 110835-6
- Short code
- HSV1 IgG Msmt Ser
- Synonyms
- HSV1 IgG Msmt Ser
- 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
What This Test Measures
The test detects **Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 Immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies** in your serum. IgG antibodies are a type of immune protein your body produces in response to an infection. If you have these antibodies, it suggests you have been exposed to HSV-1 at some point in your life, even if you no longer have active symptoms.
Why It’s Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have had cold sores, if you’re concerned about HSV-1 exposure (e.g., from sexual contact or sharing personal items), or if you have symptoms like fever blisters that recur. It can also be used as part of a general screening for viral infections.
How It Works
The test uses an immunoassay method to detect IgG antibodies specific to HSV-1. A small blood sample is taken, and the lab analyzes it to determine antibody levels. This does not measure active infection but rather your immune system’s memory of past exposure.
What to Expect
You’ll have a simple blood draw, usually at a doctor’s office or lab. The process takes a few minutes, and you may feel slight discomfort. Results are typically available within a few days to a week, depending on the lab.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
HSV-1 IgG Antibody
Frequently asked questions
This test helps confirm whether you’ve had HSV-1 in the past. While it doesn’t indicate current infection, it can inform treatment decisions, especially if you’re at risk for complications or need preventive care. If you have active symptoms (like cold sores), your provider may also check for HSV-1 DNA or other markers to diagnose an ongoing infection.
Results usually take between 5 to 14 days, depending on the lab’s processing time. Your healthcare provider will contact you once they have the results.
No, this test only detects past exposure through IgG antibodies. If you suspect an active infection (e.g., frequent cold sores or blisters), your provider may recommend additional testing, such as viral culture or PCR.
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