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Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 Antibody, IgG (Serum/Plasma)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test detects antibodies to the herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2), which causes genital herpes. It helps determine if you’ve been exposed to HSV-2 in the past.

Quick summary

["This test checks for past exposure to genital herpes virus, not active infection."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
86540-2
Short code
HSV2 Ag Tiss Ql IF
Synonyms
HSV2 Ag Tiss 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 Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms of genital herpes, a history of genital herpes, or if you’re at risk for sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It can also be used for screening in certain populations or during pregnancy to assess risk.

What the Test Measures

The test measures IgG antibodies against HSV-2, which develop after an initial infection. These antibodies remain in your blood for life once you’ve been exposed, indicating past infection.

How the Test Works

A small blood sample is taken from your arm. The serum or plasma is then tested using an immunoassay method to detect the presence of HSV-2-specific antibodies.

What the Results Mean

A positive result means you have antibodies to HSV-2, suggesting you’ve had a past infection. A negative result means the test did not detect these antibodies, but this does not rule out past exposure or a very early infection.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

This test is primarily used to confirm past exposure to HSV-2, which can inform treatment decisions, sexual health counseling, and risk assessment for others. It does not diagnose active herpes outbreaks or confirm current infection status.

Short name

HSV-2 IgG Antibody

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive result mean?
A positive result indicates you have developed antibodies to HSV-2, meaning you’ve likely had the virus in the past. This does not mean you currently have an active outbreak, but it does mean you may have been infected at some point.
Can a negative result mean I don’t have herpes?
A negative result means the test did not detect HSV-2 antibodies in your blood. However, it’s possible you were infected recently or the test was taken too early to detect antibodies. If you suspect you have herpes, discuss this with your healthcare provider.
Does this test help with active herpes treatment?
No, this test does not diagnose active herpes outbreaks. If you have symptoms of an active infection, your provider may recommend antiviral medications or other tests to guide treatment.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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