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Herpes Simplex Virus IgG Antibody by Immunoassay (Serum/Plasma)

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

This test measures 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

["Detects past exposure to HSV-1 or HSV-2 through antibody presence."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
14213-3
Short code
HSV IgM Titr Ser IF
Synonyms
HSV IgM Titr Ser IF
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
if
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

What Does This Test Measure?

The test looks for IgG antibodies specific to HSV. These antibodies develop after your body has encountered the virus, usually months or years after initial infection. Unlike IgM antibodies, which appear shortly after infection, IgG antibodies remain in your system long-term and indicate past exposure.

Why Might You Need This Test?

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms of HSV (e.g., sores, pain, or recurrent outbreaks), a history of herpes, or if you’re evaluating for past infection in certain clinical scenarios (e.g., pregnancy, organ transplantation). It helps distinguish between active infection and past exposure.

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 test is quick and typically done in a lab setting.

What to Expect After the Test

You may experience mild bruising or soreness at the injection site. Results are usually ready within a few days to a week, depending on your lab.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

IgG Antibody to HSV

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get results from this test?
Results are typically available within 5 to 7 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time.
Can I have false-positive or false-negative results?
While rare, false results can occur due to cross-reactivity with other viruses or lab errors. If your symptoms persist or results are unclear, your provider may recommend additional testing.
Is this test different from an HSV culture?
Yes. This test detects antibodies (indicating past exposure), whereas an HSV culture identifies the live virus (used for diagnosing active infection). Antibody tests are not used to confirm current outbreaks.
  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