Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 DNA (Serum/Plasma) Qualitative Probe-Based Assay
This test checks for the presence of genetic material from the herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) in your blood, which may indicate an active infection.
["The test helps determine if you have HSV-2, a virus that can cause genital herpes."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 90454-0
- Short code
- HSV2 DNA Upper resp Ql NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- HSV2 DNA Upper resp 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 Might Be Ordered
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 can also be used to confirm a diagnosis in cases where symptoms are unclear or if you have recurrent outbreaks.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this test. You may have a blood sample drawn from a vein in your arm, similar to other blood tests. If you are taking blood thinners, let your provider know before the test.
What the Test Results Mean
A positive result means your blood contains genetic material from HSV-2, suggesting an active infection. A negative result means the virus was not detected in this sample. Results should be interpreted by your healthcare provider in the context of your medical history and symptoms.
How the Test Works
This test uses a molecular method to detect the DNA of HSV-2. A small sample of your blood (serum or plasma) is analyzed to identify the virus’s genetic material, which helps confirm an infection even when symptoms are not present.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test is crucial for diagnosing HSV-2 infections, which can cause recurrent genital herpes. Early detection allows for appropriate treatment to manage symptoms, reduce transmission risk, and prevent complications. It can also help monitor the effectiveness of antiviral therapy.
Short name
HSV-2 DNA Test (Serum/Plasma)
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
Can this test be used to detect past infections?
How often should I get this test?
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