Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 Immunoglobulin G Antibody (IgG) – Fluid
This test measures the presence of antibodies to herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) in your blood. Antibodies are your body’s immune response to a virus, helping your immune system recognize and fight it.
["This test helps determine if you’ve been exposed to HSV-2, which causes genital herpes."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 31067-2
- Short code
- HSV2 IgG Fld-aCnc
- Synonyms
- HSV2 IgG Fld-aCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 82784
- 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
What Does This Test Measure?
The test detects IgG antibodies specific to HSV-2, which develop after an initial infection or during long-term exposure. These antibodies indicate past or current infection, but they don’t always mean you’re actively sick. IgG antibodies can remain in your system for years.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like sores, pain, or unusual discharge in the genital area, or if you’ve had multiple sexual partners. It’s also used in screening for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or to confirm a diagnosis of genital herpes.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this blood test. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm, and a small amount of blood will be drawn. The process usually takes a few minutes. If you’re pregnant or have a bleeding disorder, let your provider know before the test.
What to Expect After the Test
After the blood is drawn, you may feel a slight pinch or bruising at the site. Apply gentle pressure to stop any bleeding. You can resume normal activities immediately. Rarely, you might experience mild discomfort or swelling, but these symptoms usually go away quickly.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Positive results for HSV-2 IgG antibodies suggest you’ve been exposed to HSV-2 at some point, meaning you’ve had the virus in your body. While this doesn’t indicate an active infection, it’s important for managing your health, especially if you’re pregnant or have a partner who may be at risk. Treatment can help manage symptoms and reduce transmission, but there’s no cure for HSV-2.
Short name
HSV-2 IgG Antibody
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get the results of this test?
Can I have this test if I’m pregnant?
What does a positive result mean for my sexual health?
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