Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 Antibody Pattern Serum Immunoassay
This test detects antibodies to herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) in your blood, helping identify past or current infection.
["This test helps determine if you’ve been exposed to HSV-2, which can cause genital herpes."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 13501-2
- Short code
- HSV2 Ab pattern Ser-Imp
- Synonyms
- HSV2 Ab pattern Ser-Imp
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 17
- 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 measures different types of antibodies your immune system produces in response to HSV-2. These antibodies can indicate whether you’ve had exposure to the virus at some point, even if you don’t currently have symptoms.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Doctors may recommend this test if you have symptoms like sores or lesions around your genitals, mouth, or rectum; if you have a history of genital herpes; or if you’re at higher risk for HSV-2 (e.g., due to sexual history or medical conditions). It can also be used during pregnancy to assess risk for transmission to your baby.
What Does a Positive Result Mean?
A positive result means your body has detected antibodies to HSV-2, suggesting past exposure. However, it doesn’t confirm whether you’re currently infected or if symptoms are active. Testing for viral load (active virus) may be needed for diagnosis of active herpes.
What Does a Negative Result Mean?
A negative result means your blood sample did not show detectable antibodies to HSV-2 at this time. This could mean you’ve never been exposed, or if you were, your immune system cleared the virus without leaving detectable antibodies.
Reference range
NCBI: NSE 0-17 ng/mLN/A
No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: Understanding Your Results
Short name
HSV-2 Antibody Test
Frequently asked questions
How Long Does It Take to Get Results?
Can This Test Detect Active Herpes?
What If I Have Recurrent Symptoms?
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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy