Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 (HSV-2) DNA Detection by Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) on Saliva Specimen
This test checks for the presence of genetic material from HSV-2, the virus responsible for genital herpes, using a sample of your saliva. It helps determine if you have an active infection or have been exposed recently.
["This test can help diagnose genital herpes caused by HSV-2 and guide treatment decisions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 90453-2
- Short code
- HSV2 DNA Aspirate Ql NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- HSV2 DNA Aspirate Ql NAA+probe
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- probe-amp-tar
- 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 have a history of genital herpes. It may also be used during pregnancy to assess risk for transmission to your baby or to confirm infection in people with no visible symptoms.
How the Test Works
A small sample of saliva is collected and analyzed using a highly sensitive PCR technique. This method detects even tiny amounts of HSV-2 DNA, allowing for early detection of infection.
Sample Collection and Preparation
You will provide a saliva sample, typically by swabbing the inside of your cheek or collecting saliva into a container. The sample is then processed in a lab to identify HSV-2 DNA.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have symptoms like blisters or pain in the genital area, but these are not required for the test. If you are pregnant, inform your healthcare provider before testing.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Positive results indicate active HSV-2 infection. This can confirm a diagnosis of genital herpes, help manage symptoms, and reduce the risk of complications. It also informs treatment decisions, such as antiviral medications to shorten outbreaks or reduce transmission risk. Negative results mean HSV-2 DNA was not detected in the sample, but this does not rule out past infection or latent virus presence.
Short name
HSV-2 DNA Test (Saliva)
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
What does a positive result mean?
Can I still have sex if my test is positive?
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