Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) DNA in Lower Respiratory Tract Specimen by Nucleic Acid Amplification Probe
This test detects the presence of genetic material from the herpes simplex virus (HSV) in your respiratory secretions, helping identify if you have an active infection.
["This test helps diagnose active herpes infections in the lungs or airways."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 89584-7
- Short code
- HSV DNA Lower resp Ql NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- HSV DNA Lower resp Ql NAA+probe
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- probe-amp-tar
- 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
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like coughing, fever, or breathing difficulties that could suggest a herpes infection in your respiratory system. It’s also used in certain cases of suspected pneumonia or other lung infections caused by HSV.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may be asked to collect a sample of respiratory secretions (such as from a nasal swab or sputum) using a sterile tube provided by your healthcare team.
How the Test Works
The test uses a specialized probe to detect the genetic material (DNA) of HSV. This process is highly sensitive and can identify even small amounts of the virus in your respiratory fluids.
Possible Results and Their Meaning
A positive result indicates the presence of HSV DNA, suggesting an active infection. A negative result means the virus was not detected in the sample, but this does not always rule out infection if testing was not performed at the right time.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: This test is critical for diagnosing HSV infections in the lungs or airways, guiding treatment decisions and monitoring progression. It helps differentiate between viral and bacterial causes of respiratory symptoms and ensures timely antiviral therapy if needed.
Short name
HSV DNA in Lung Fluids
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
Can this test detect HSV in other parts of the body?
How soon after symptoms do I need to get tested?
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