Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 Immunoglobulin G (IgG) Antibody, Serum
This test measures the presence of antibodies to the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) in your blood. Antibodies are proteins your immune system makes in response to infections.
["This test helps determine if your body has ever been exposed to HSV-1, a virus that can cause cold sores and other infections."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 73559-7
- Short code
- HSV1 IgG Titr Ser IF
- Synonyms
- HSV1 IgG Titr Ser IF
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- 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
- 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 IgG antibodies specific to HSV-1. IgG antibodies are part of your immune system’s long-term defense and appear after your body has been exposed to the virus, usually months or years later. This test is not used to diagnose an active HSV-1 infection but rather to assess past exposure.
Why It Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have a history of cold sores or other HSV-1-related symptoms, if you’re being evaluated for immune system conditions, or if you’re planning a pregnancy and have concerns about viral exposure.
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, similar to other routine blood tests. If you’re nervous, let your healthcare provider know so they can help make you more comfortable.
What the Results Mean
A positive result means your body has produced antibodies to HSV-1, indicating past exposure. A negative result suggests you either have never been exposed or the test was taken too soon after exposure for antibodies to develop. Results should always be interpreted by your healthcare provider in the context of your medical history.
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.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
HSV-1 IgG Antibody
Frequently asked questions
Will this test show if I have an active cold sore?
Can I get this test if I’m pregnant?
Does a positive result mean I’ll always have HSV-1?
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