Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 Immunoglobulin G Antibody (Serum/Plasma)
This test measures the presence of antibodies to herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2), a virus that can cause genital herpes. Antibodies indicate past or current infection.
["This test helps determine if you’ve ever been exposed to HSV-2."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 16955-7
- Short code
- HSV2 IgG Ser Ql IB
- Synonyms
- HSV2 IgG Ser Ql IB
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ib
- 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** against HSV-2, which your immune system produces in response to infection. These antibodies can stay in your blood for years after recovery, even if you no longer have active symptoms. This test is not used to diagnose an active infection but can help track past exposure.
Why Might You Need This Test?
A doctor may order this test if you have symptoms of genital herpes (e.g., sores, itching, or pain) but test results for active infection (like HSV-2 DNA or culture) are unclear. It can also be used for screening in high-risk groups or during pregnancy to assess risk.
What Does a Positive Result Mean?
A positive result means your body has produced antibodies to HSV-2, suggesting past infection. However, it does not confirm whether you currently have active symptoms or disease. This test alone cannot diagnose an active outbreak.
What Does a Negative Result Mean?
A negative result means your body did not detect HSV-2 antibodies at the time of testing. This could mean you’ve never been infected or that your immune system hasn’t yet produced detectable antibodies.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
While HSV-2 IgG tests are useful for identifying past exposure, they have limitations. They cannot distinguish between past infection and current asymptomatic shedding. This test is often used alongside other diagnostic tools (like PCR or viral culture) for active infection confirmation. It’s also important for pregnant women to discuss risks with their provider, as HSV-2 can be transmitted during childbirth.
Short name
HSV-2 IgG Antibody
Frequently asked questions
Can this test tell me if I have an active outbreak right now?
What if my test is positive but I don’t have symptoms?
How long do HSV-2 antibodies stay in my blood?
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