Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 Antibody, Genital Region (Qualitative Immunoassay)
This test detects antibodies to herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2), which causes genital herpes. It helps determine if you’ve been exposed to the virus.
["This test helps diagnose or confirm past exposure to genital herpes caused by HSV-2."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 5847-9
- Short code
- HSV2 Ag Genital Ql IF
- Synonyms
- HSV2 Ag Genital Ql IF
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- if
- 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 Is Done
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like sores, itching, or unusual discharge in the genital area, or if you’ve had multiple sexual partners. It can also be used to confirm a diagnosis of genital herpes in people who already have symptoms or have been exposed to the virus.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have a blood sample drawn from a vein in your arm, or a sample of saliva may be collected depending on the lab’s protocol. If a blood test is done, you might feel a slight pinch, but it usually takes only a few minutes.
What the Test Results Mean
Positive results indicate you have antibodies to HSV-2, suggesting past infection. Negative results mean you likely haven’t been exposed to HSV-2 at the time of testing. However, a negative result doesn’t guarantee you’re free of the virus, as it may take time for antibodies to develop after exposure.
How the Test Works
This test uses an immunoassay method to detect specific antibodies in your blood or saliva that your immune system produces in response to HSV-2. Antibodies are proteins that help your body fight infections.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test is crucial for diagnosing genital herpes caused by HSV-2, which can cause recurrent outbreaks. It helps healthcare providers manage the condition, provide treatment, and counsel patients about risk reduction strategies, such as safe sex practices and managing outbreaks to prevent spreading the virus to others.
Short name
HSV-2 Antibody (Genital)
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
Can I still get genital herpes if I test negative?
How long does it take to get the results?
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