Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 Immunoglobulin G Antibody (Serum)
This test measures your body’s immune response to herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), a common virus that can cause cold sores or infections. It helps determine if you’ve been exposed to HSV-1 in the past.
["This test checks for past exposure to HSV-1, not whether you currently have an active infection."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 5206-8
- Short code
- HSV1 IgG Ser IA-aCnc
- Synonyms
- HSV1 IgG Ser IA-aCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ia
- 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 Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you’ve had symptoms or exposure to HSV-1, such as cold sores, or if you’re investigating unexplained recurrent sores. It can also be part of a broader evaluation for immune system conditions or prior infections.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample, typically drawn from a vein in your arm. The test is usually done in a lab setting and may take a few minutes.
What the Test Results Mean
A positive result indicates you’ve likely been exposed to HSV-1 at some point, meaning your immune system has produced antibodies to fight it. A negative result suggests no detectable antibodies, meaning either you’ve never been exposed or the test was taken too early after exposure.
Common Reasons for Testing
This test is often used to confirm past infection rather than diagnose an active outbreak. It can help rule out other conditions or guide treatment decisions for recurrent cold sores or related symptoms.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
HSV-1 IgG antibodies remain in your blood for life after initial infection, serving as a marker of past exposure. While this test doesn’t indicate whether you’re currently infected, it can help assess your risk for future infections or guide counseling about transmission risks to others. It’s particularly useful in cases of recurrent cold sores or when evaluating immune-related conditions that may affect HSV-1 management.
Short name
HSV-1 IgG Antibody
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results from this test?
Can I have a sample of my blood drawn at home?
Does this test show if I currently have an active HSV-1 infection?
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