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Herpes Simplex Virus Antibody Screening (Serum/Plasma)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test checks for antibodies to the herpes simplex virus (HSV), which can help determine if you’ve ever been exposed to the virus or if you currently have an infection.

Quick summary

["This screening helps guide further testing or treatment if needed."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
16945-8
Short code
HSV Ag Spec Ql
Synonyms
HSV Ag Spec 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

What Does This Test Measure?

The test detects antibodies produced by your immune system in response to HSV. Antibodies are proteins your body makes to fight infections. If you have HSV antibodies, it suggests past exposure or infection, though active infection may require additional testing.

Why Might You Need This Test?

Doctors may order this test if you have symptoms like sores, pain, or unusual rashes that could be related to HSV, or if you have a history of recurrent infections. It can also be part of routine screening for sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

How Is the Test Performed?

A small blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it is tested using an immunoassay method to detect HSV antibodies.

What Are Common Results?

Results are typically reported as positive or negative for HSV antibodies. A positive result means the test detected antibodies, but it does not confirm an active infection. Further testing may be needed to determine if you currently have HSV.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Having HSV antibodies indicates past exposure to the virus, which can be important for understanding your health history, especially if you have symptoms or a history of recurrent infections. It also helps in managing potential risks, such as transmission to others or complications related to HSV.

Short name

HSV Antibody Screen

Frequently asked questions

What Does a Positive Result Mean?
A positive result means your blood contains antibodies against HSV, suggesting you’ve been exposed to the virus at some point. This does not necessarily mean you have an active infection now, so further testing may be needed to check for current symptoms or infection.
How Long Does It Take to Get Results?
Results are usually available within 24 to 72 hours, depending on your lab’s processing time. Your healthcare provider will contact you once the results are ready.
Can This Test Be Done at Home?
No, this test requires a blood sample collected by a healthcare professional in a clinical setting. Home testing kits are not available for this specific antibody screening.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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