Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 Antibody, Fluid (IgG and IgA)
This test measures antibodies against the herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2), which can help identify past or current infection with this sexually transmitted virus.
["This test helps determine if you’ve been exposed to HSV-2, which can cause genital herpes."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 29236-7
- Short code
- HSV2 Ab Fld-aCnc
- Synonyms
- HSV2 Ab Fld-aCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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 Does This Test Measure?
The test detects two types of antibodies—IgG and IgA—that your immune system produces in response to HSV-2. IgG antibodies typically appear within weeks to months after infection and can persist for years, while IgA antibodies may indicate recent or active infection.
Why Might You Need This Test?
A herpes simplex virus type 2 antibody test may be recommended if you have symptoms like sores, pain, or unusual discharge in the genital or anal area, or if you’ve been diagnosed with genital herpes and want to confirm the type of virus.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample, usually drawn from a vein in your arm. If testing for recent infection, a urine sample may be used instead.
What to Expect During the Test
The blood or urine sample will be sent to a lab for analysis using an immunoassay method to detect antibodies. Results are usually available within a few days.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Positive results indicate exposure to HSV-2, meaning you’ve likely been infected at some point. While this doesn’t confirm an active outbreak, it helps confirm a diagnosis of genital herpes. Negative results mean no detectable antibodies were found, suggesting you’ve never been infected or have been infected long enough for antibodies to develop.
Short name
HSV-2 Antibody Panel
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results from this test?
Can I have this test if I’m pregnant?
What does a positive result mean for my health?
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