Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 Immunoglobulin G Antibody (IgG) – Titration
This test measures your body’s immune response to herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2), which can cause genital herpes. It helps determine if you’ve been exposed to the virus and whether your immune system has produced antibodies to fight it.
["This test helps assess past or current HSV-2 infection and supports diagnosis or monitoring of genital herpes."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 22337-0
- Short code
- HSV2 IgG Titr CSF
- Synonyms
- HSV2 IgG Titr CSF
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- csf
- Container
- Sterile tube
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 8
- Ref high
- 61
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 82977
- SNOMED
- 3110003
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL
- Stability
- Immediate analysis required, Refrigerated: 1h
- Hemolysis max
- 200
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may order 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 can also be used to confirm a diagnosis of genital herpes in people with symptoms or to check for past exposure in individuals without current symptoms.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have a blood sample drawn from a vein in your arm, similar to other blood tests. If you’re unsure about timing, ask your provider if fasting is required.
How the Test Works
The test uses a blood sample to detect specific antibodies (IgG) produced by your immune system in response to HSV-2. These antibodies indicate past infection, even if you no longer have active symptoms.
What the Results Mean
A positive result means your body has produced antibodies to HSV-2, suggesting past exposure. A negative result means the test did not detect these antibodies at the time of testing. Results alone do not confirm active infection; they may require additional testing.
Reference range
Adult males: 8-61 U/L; Adult females: 5-36 U/LN/A
No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
IgG Antibody to HSV-2
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
How does this differ from an HSV-2 PCR test?
Can I get this test if I’m pregnant?
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