Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 Antibody Screening by Qualitative Immunoassay (Serum)
This test checks for antibodies to herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2), which causes genital herpes. Antibodies indicate past or current infection.
["This screening helps determine if you’ve been exposed to HSV-2, even if you don’t have symptoms."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 5849-5
- Short code
- HSV2 Ag Spec Ql IF
- Synonyms
- HSV2 Ag Spec 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 Matters
Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) is a common sexually transmitted infection. While many people with HSV-2 don’t have symptoms, it can cause recurring sores or discomfort. This test helps identify whether you’ve been exposed, which is important for managing health and preventing spread to others.
What the Test Involves
A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The sample is tested for antibodies that the immune system produces in response to HSV-2. The result is reported as either positive or negative, indicating the presence or absence of these antibodies.
What the Results Typically Mean
A positive result suggests you’ve been exposed to HSV-2 at some point, meaning you may have developed antibodies. This does not necessarily mean you currently have an active infection, but it indicates past exposure. A negative result means no detectable antibodies were found in this test.
When You Might Need This Test
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms of genital herpes, have had multiple sexual partners, or are at higher risk for sexually transmitted infections. It can also be part of routine screening in certain clinical settings.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test is primarily used for screening and diagnosis of HSV-2 infection. A positive result can guide further testing for active infection or confirm a past exposure. It helps healthcare providers counsel patients about infection risks, treatment options, and preventive measures. While antibodies don’t change over time, this test can be repeated if there are concerns about recent exposure or changes in symptoms.
Short name
HSV-2 Antibody Screen
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
Can this test detect an active infection?
How long does it take to get 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