Herpes Simplex Virus Antibody Test (IgG and IgA) by Immunoassay
This test checks for antibodies against herpes simplex virus (HSV), which can help determine past or current infection with either HSV-1 or HSV-2.
["This test helps identify if you’ve been exposed to or recovered from herpes, a common but often asymptomatic virus."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 109767-4
- Short code
- HSV Ag Msmt CSF
- Synonyms
- HSV Ag Msmt CSF
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- csf
- Container
- Sterile tube
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL
- Stability
- Immediate analysis required, Refrigerated: 1h
- Hemolysis max
- 200
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
The test detects two types of antibodies—IgG and IgA—that your immune system produces in response to HSV. IgG antibodies typically appear after initial infection and persist long-term, while IgA antibodies may appear earlier or in certain immune responses. This helps distinguish between past infection and potential active infection.
Why It’s Done
Doctors may order this test if you have symptoms like sores, pain, or unusual rashes that could suggest HSV infection, or if you’re at higher risk (e.g., due to sexual history, immune conditions). It can also be used for screening in certain populations or to confirm diagnosis when symptoms are unclear.
Sample Collection and Process
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is processed to separate serum (liquid part of blood) for testing. The test uses an immunoassay method to detect specific antibodies against HSV in your serum.
What to Expect Before or After
No special preparation is needed, but inform your provider if you’re on blood-thinning medications. After drawing blood, you may feel slight discomfort, but it usually resolves quickly. Results may take a few days to a week to process.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Positive results indicate past exposure to HSV, meaning you’ve likely been infected at some point. IgG antibodies alone often mean you’ve recovered and are no longer actively contagious. IgA antibodies may suggest recent or active infection, especially if combined with symptoms. This test is important for managing infections, planning treatments, or assessing risk for others.
Short name
HSV Antibody Panel
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results from this test?
Can I have false-positive or false-negative results?
Does this test differentiate between HSV-1 and HSV-2?
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