Herpes Simplex Virus Antibody, Genital Region (Qualitative)
This test detects antibodies to herpes simplex virus (HSV), which can help identify past or current genital herpes infection caused by HSV-2 (or sometimes HSV-1). Antibodies develop after infection and can remain in your system long-term.
["This test helps confirm if you’ve been exposed to genital herpes or if it’s active in your body."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 31852-7
- Short code
- HSV Ag Genital Ql
- Synonyms
- HSV Ag Genital Ql
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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 pain in the genital area, unexplained genital sores, or if you have a history of herpes. It may also be used for screening in high-risk groups or during pregnancy to assess risk for transmission to a baby.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. A blood sample is typically taken from a vein in your arm. You may experience a slight pinch or discomfort, but it usually takes only a few minutes. If you’re pregnant, let your provider know before the test.
What the Test Results Mean
Positive results indicate the presence of HSV antibodies, suggesting past or current infection. Negative results mean no detectable antibodies were found at the time of testing. Results alone don’t confirm active infection without clinical symptoms or additional testing.
How This Test Differs from Other Tests
Unlike HSV PCR (which detects viral DNA in a sample) or viral culture (which identifies live virus), this test looks for antibodies. It’s useful for detecting past infection but may not show active herpes outbreaks.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
While this test helps confirm herpes exposure, it’s often used alongside clinical findings (e.g., sores, history) to diagnose active infection. Antibody tests are not used to diagnose active outbreaks but can guide treatment decisions, especially in pregnant women or immunocompromised individuals. Antibody levels may fluctuate over time and don’t predict recurrence frequency.
Short name
HSV Antibody (Genital)
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
Can I get this test if I don’t have symptoms?
Does this test show if I have active herpes?
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