Herpes Simplex Virus Antibody, Cerebrospinal Fluid (IgG)

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like severe headaches, neck stiffness, confusion, or neurological issues that could suggest an infection affecting your brain or spinal cord. It’s also used when HSV is suspected in people with weakened immune systems or those with recurrent infections.

What to Expect During the Test

A small amount of cerebrospinal fluid is collected through a procedure called a lumbar puncture (spinal tap). The fluid is then tested for HSV antibodies using an immunoassay method. This is usually done in a lab after the sample is sent to the facility.

Sample Collection and Preparation

No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to avoid certain medications or activities that could affect results. The test is performed on the CSF sample collected during the lumbar puncture, which is typically done in a hospital or clinic setting.

What the Results Mean

Positive results indicate the presence of HSV antibodies in the CSF, suggesting an active infection or past exposure. Negative results mean no detectable antibodies were found, which could mean no current infection or insufficient immune response to detect HSV.