Skip to content

Herpes Simplex Virus IgG Antibody (Serum)

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

This test checks for antibodies in your blood that your immune system produces in response to the herpes simplex virus (HSV), which can cause cold sores or genital herpes.

Quick summary

["It helps determine if you’ve ever been exposed to HSV or if you have immunity against it."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
19106-4
Short code
HSV IgG Ser Ql
Synonyms
HSV IgG Ser Ql
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 doctor may order this test if you have symptoms of HSV infection (like sores or pain), if you’ve been exposed to someone with HSV, or if you’re planning pregnancy to check for past exposure. It can also help confirm a diagnosis when symptoms are unclear.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into a vein in your arm to draw blood. It usually takes a few minutes, and you may feel a brief pinch. If you’re nervous, let your doctor or nurse know.

What the Test Results Mean

If you test positive for HSV IgG antibodies, it means your body has developed immunity to HSV, likely from past infection. A negative result suggests you haven’t been exposed to HSV or haven’t developed immunity yet. Results don’t indicate whether you currently have an active infection.

Common Causes of Positive Results

A positive result is most common in people who have had HSV infection in the past, whether from cold sores or genital herpes. It can also appear after vaccination or exposure to HSV.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

IgG Antibody to HSV

Frequently asked questions

How Does This Test Help Doctors?
This test helps doctors assess your risk for future HSV infections, guide treatment decisions, or monitor immunity—especially important for pregnant women or those with weakened immune systems. It doesn’t replace other tests for diagnosing active infection.
What If I Have Symptoms Now?
If you’re experiencing active HSV symptoms (like sores or pain), you’ll likely need a different test (like HSV PCR or culture) to confirm the current infection. This IgG test only shows past exposure.
How Long Does It Take to Get Results?
Results are usually available within 1–3 business days. Your doctor will discuss them with you during your follow-up visit.
  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