Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 (HSV-2) DNA in Whole Blood by Nucleic Acid Amplification Probe
This test detects the presence of genetic material from the herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2), which causes genital herpes, in your blood. It helps confirm an infection if you have symptoms or risk factors.
["This test can help diagnose herpes infections and guide treatment decisions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 49988-9
- Short code
- HSV2 DNA # Bld NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- HSV2 DNA # Bld NAA+probe
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- probe-amp-tar
- Specimen volume
- 3 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like sores, pain, or unusual discharge in the genital or anal area, or if you’ve been diagnosed with genital herpes but symptoms are unclear. It may also be used to confirm an infection in people with no visible symptoms or if you’ve had multiple sexual partners.
How the Test Works
The test involves collecting a small sample of whole blood. The genetic material (DNA) from HSV-2 is extracted and analyzed using a probe-based nucleic acid amplification technique. This method is highly sensitive and can detect even small amounts of virus.
Sample Collection and Preparation
Blood is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm, using a needle. The sample is processed in a lab to isolate the DNA from HSV-2, which is then tested for presence.
What to Expect Before the Test
There are no special preparations needed for this test. You may have some mild discomfort or bruising at the injection site, but this usually goes away quickly. If you’re pregnant, have a bleeding disorder, or take blood-thinning medications, let your provider know before the test.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Detecting HSV-2 DNA in blood is important for confirming a herpes infection, especially if symptoms are mild or unclear. Early diagnosis allows for timely treatment, which can reduce viral shedding (spreading the virus to others) and manage symptoms. It also helps monitor treatment effectiveness and prevent complications like recurrent infections or transmission to others.
Short name
HSV-2 DNA Blood Test
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results from this test?
What does a positive result mean?
Can this test detect HSV-2 if I have no 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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy