Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 Immunoglobulin G (IgG) Antibody, Serum
This test measures the level of antibodies against Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 (HSV-1) in your blood. Antibodies are proteins your immune system produces to help fight infections.
["This test helps determine if you have ever been exposed to HSV-1, a common virus that can cause cold sores and other infections."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 14086-3
- Short code
- HSV1 IgG Titr CSF IF
- Synonyms
- HSV1 IgG Titr CSF IF
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- csf
- Container
- Sterile tube
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 8
- Ref high
- 61
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- if
- CPT
- 82977
- SNOMED
- 3110003
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL
- Stability
- Immediate analysis required, Refrigerated: 1h
- Hemolysis max
- 200
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms of HSV-1 infection, such as sores around your mouth or lips, or if you have recurrent cold sores. It might also be used to diagnose or monitor conditions related to past exposure, such as certain neurological issues or immune system evaluations.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this blood test. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood, which usually causes only a brief pinch. You can eat and drink normally before the test.
What the Test Results Mean
Positive results indicate you have developed antibodies against HSV-1, suggesting past exposure to the virus. Negative results mean you likely have not been exposed to HSV-1 at the time of testing or your immune system may not have produced detectable antibodies.
Possible Side Effects or Risks
The most common side effect is a small bruise, redness, or slight pain at the injection site. Rarely, you might experience a more serious reaction such as fainting or excessive bleeding, but these are uncommon.
Reference range
Adult males: 8-61 U/L; Adult females: 5-36 U/LN/A
No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test is important for diagnosing past infection with HSV-1, which can inform treatment decisions, especially if symptoms are recurrent or if there are concerns about complications. It can also help in assessing immune responses or evaluating conditions linked to viral exposure, such as certain autoimmune or neurological disorders.
Short name
HSV-1 IgG Antibody
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get the results of this test?
Can I have this test if I am pregnant?
What does a high or low level of HSV-1 IgG antibodies mean?
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