Herpes Simplex Virus Antibody, Genital Region, Qualitative (IgG)
This test detects antibodies to herpes simplex virus (HSV) in your blood, which your immune system produces in response to past or current genital HSV infection. Antibodies help your body fight the virus but don’t directly show active infection.
["This test helps determine if you’ve ever been exposed to genital herpes, even if you don’t currently have symptoms."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 5850-3
- Short code
- HSV Ag Genital Ql IA
- Synonyms
- HSV Ag Genital Ql IA
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ia
- 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 Is Done
Doctors may order this test if you have symptoms like sores, pain, or unusual discharge in the genital area, or if you have a history of genital herpes. It can also be used for screening in certain high-risk groups or during pregnancy to assess transmission risk.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm, similar to other blood tests. The process usually takes a few minutes and may cause a slight pinch or discomfort.
What the Test Results Mean
A positive result means your blood contains antibodies against HSV, indicating past infection. A negative result suggests no detectable antibodies, meaning you likely haven’t been infected with HSV in the genital region or the test was done too early after exposure.
Possible Results and Next Steps
If you have symptoms of genital herpes and test positive, your doctor may recommend further testing (like PCR) to confirm active infection. If you’re pregnant, a positive result may guide decisions about delivery or antiviral treatment.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test is important for managing herpes infections, especially in pregnancy, where it can help prevent complications. It also supports counseling about infection risks, transmission, and preventive measures. While antibodies don’t indicate active disease, they confirm exposure history, aiding in long-term management plans.
Short name
HSV Genital Antibody Test (IgG)
Frequently asked questions
Will this test show if I currently have genital herpes?
Can I get this test if I’m pregnant?
How long does it take to get results?
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