Herpes Simplex Virus IgG Antibody, Serum
This test measures the presence of antibodies in your blood that your immune system makes in response to past exposure to the herpes simplex virus (HSV). These antibodies help your body fight the virus and can indicate whether you’ve had HSV at any point in your life.
["This test helps determine if you’ve been exposed to herpes simplex virus, which can cause cold sores or genital herpes."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 22342-0
- Short code
- HSV IgG Ser-Imp
- Synonyms
- HSV IgG Ser-Imp
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 82784
- 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 of herpes (such as sores, pain, or flu-like symptoms) or if you have a history of herpes. It can also be used to confirm a diagnosis in people with recurrent outbreaks or to check for past exposure in certain situations, such as before pregnancy or in high-risk groups.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this test. You’ll typically have a blood sample drawn from a vein in your arm, similar to other blood tests. The process usually takes a few minutes and is generally comfortable.
What the Test Results Mean
If your test is positive for HSV IgG antibodies, it means your body has produced antibodies in response to the virus, suggesting past exposure. This does not necessarily mean you currently have an active infection. If you’re concerned about active herpes, your provider may recommend additional testing.
Possible Results and Next Steps
A positive result indicates immunity from past infection but does not rule out future outbreaks. If you have symptoms of herpes or are unsure about your status, discuss your results with your healthcare provider. They may recommend further testing or treatment options based on your symptoms and medical history.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
IgG Antibody to HSV (Herpes Simplex Virus)
Frequently asked questions
This test is important for identifying past exposure to herpes simplex virus, which can inform decisions about treatment, prevention strategies (such as antiviral medications), or further medical evaluation if needed. It can also help guide decisions for pregnant individuals or those with immune-compromised conditions.
What does a negative result mean?
Can this test be used to diagnose an active herpes infection?
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