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Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 DNA Detection by Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (QPCR) in Skin Lesion Fluid

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

This test checks for the presence of herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) genetic material in a sample taken from your skin lesion, often used to diagnose genital herpes.

Quick summary

["Determining if HSV-2 is causing your skin symptoms can help guide treatment and management."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
92874-7
Short code
HSV2 DNA Skin Ql NAA+probe
Synonyms
HSV2 DNA Skin 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 active skin lesions, particularly in the genital area, and suspect herpes infection. It helps confirm whether the virus is responsible for your symptoms rather than another condition.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. A healthcare provider will collect a sample from your skin lesion using a sterile swab or similar device. The sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.

What the Test Results Mean

Positive results indicate the presence of HSV-2 DNA in your lesion fluid, strongly suggesting an active herpes infection. Negative results mean the virus was not detected in the sample at the time of testing.

How the Test Works

This test uses a highly sensitive molecular method called quantitative polymerase chain reaction (QPCR) to detect and measure the genetic material of HSV-2. It amplifies and quantifies the virus’s DNA to confirm infection.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Identifying HSV-2 infection early is important for managing symptoms, reducing transmission risk, and preventing complications. It helps guide treatment decisions, such as antiviral medications, and supports long-term management strategies.

Short name

HSV-2 DNA Skin Probe (QPCR)

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive result mean?
A positive result strongly suggests you have an active HSV-2 infection in the sampled lesion. This means the virus is currently present and may be causing symptoms. Your provider will work with you to develop a treatment plan.
Can this test be used to diagnose herpes without symptoms?
This test is primarily used for diagnosing active herpes infections in people with visible skin lesions. It is not typically used for routine screening without symptoms, as HSV-2 can be present without visible outbreaks.
How soon after infection can this test detect HSV-2?
This test can detect HSV-2 DNA as early as a few days after infection, but it is most reliable when performed on active lesions. Early testing may not always confirm infection if the virus is not actively replicating in the lesion.
  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