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Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) DNA in Plasma/Serum (Quantitative)

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

This test measures the amount of genetic material from the herpes simplex virus (HSV) in your blood. It helps determine if you have an active infection or if the virus is present in your body.

Quick summary

["Assessing active herpes infection through viral DNA detection in your bloodstream."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
72838-6
Short code
HSV DNA Spec NAA+probe
Synonyms
HSV DNA Spec 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 sores, pain, or unusual fatigue that could be caused by HSV infection. It’s also used to monitor people with recurrent herpes outbreaks or those with weakened immune systems, such as after organ transplants or due to HIV/AIDS.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample, usually drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is collected in a tube that separates plasma or serum from blood cells for testing.

How the Test Works

The test uses a molecular probe to detect and quantify HSV DNA fragments in your plasma or serum. This method is highly sensitive and can identify even small amounts of the virus.

What the Results Mean

A positive result means HSV DNA is present, suggesting an active infection. The amount of DNA can help determine the severity or progression of the infection. A negative result means no detectable HSV DNA in this sample.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

HSV DNA Quant

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive result indicate?
A positive result indicates the presence of HSV DNA in your blood, which strongly suggests an active herpes simplex virus infection. This may mean you have symptoms like sores, pain, or other signs of infection, or it could be a silent infection where you don’t have obvious symptoms but the virus is active.
How often should I get this test if I have recurrent herpes?
If you have recurrent herpes, your healthcare provider may recommend this test at intervals based on your symptoms, immune status, or treatment plan. They may also use it to monitor how well your current treatment is working or to check for changes in viral load over time.
Can this test detect herpes in other body fluids besides blood?
This specific test measures HSV DNA in plasma or serum. However, herpes can also be tested in other fluids like saliva, urine, or cerebrospinal fluid, depending on the clinical situation. Your provider will specify the test type based on your symptoms or needs.
  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