Herpes Simplex Virus 1 (HSV-1) Immunoglobulin G (IgG) Antibody
This test measures the level of antibodies your body produces in response to exposure to the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), which causes cold sores and can also affect other parts of the body.
["This test helps determine past exposure to HSV-1 and whether your immune system has developed immunity."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 17850-9
- Short code
- HSV1 IgG Ser Ql
- Synonyms
- HSV1 IgG Ser Ql
- 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 Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms of HSV-1 infection (like cold sores), if you’ve had close contact with someone who has HSV-1, or if you’re planning pregnancy and want to assess your immunity. It can also be used for research or screening in certain populations.
What the Test Measures
The test detects IgG antibodies, which develop after your body has been exposed to HSV-1. These antibodies stay in your system long after the initial infection has cleared, indicating past immunity.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The blood is processed to separate the serum (liquid part of blood without clots), which is then tested for HSV-1 IgG antibodies using an immunoassay method.
What the Results Mean
A positive result means you likely have developed immunity to HSV-1 from past infection. A negative result suggests you may not have been exposed or your immune system hasn’t yet produced detectable antibodies. Results don’t confirm current infection status.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
HSV-1 IgG Antibody
Frequently asked questions
If you have a positive result, it indicates you’re likely protected against HSV-1 and may not need antiviral treatment for active infection. However, if you’re pregnant or have a weakened immune system, your provider may still monitor you closely for symptoms.
Does this test differentiate between HSV-1 and HSV-2? No, this test only measures antibodies to HSV-1. If you’re concerned about HSV-2, you may need a separate HSV-2 IgG test.
Can I get HSV-1 if I have a positive IgG test? No, a positive IgG test means you’ve already had HSV-1 and developed immunity. However, you can still spread the virus to others if you have active cold sores.
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