Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) Type 1- and Type 2-Specific Antibodies, IgG, Serum
Use
This test is useful for determining whether a patient has been previously exposed to herpes simplex virus (HSV) types 1 and 2. It assists in distinguishing between infections caused by HSV types 1 and 2, especially in patients with subclinical or unrecognized HSV infection. However, it should not be used to diagnose active or recent infection. The presence of IgG-class antibodies to HSV types 1 or 2 indicates previous exposure, but does not necessarily indicate that HSV is the causative agent of an acute illness.
Special Instructions
Centrifuge and aliquot serum into a plastic vial. If not ordering electronically, complete and send the Infectious Disease Serology Test Request form with the specimen.
Limitations
Detection of IgG-class antibodies to HSV should not be used routinely to diagnose active infections, as serum specimens collected too early in the infection course may not have detectable levels of HSV IgG. False positives are possible, and the presence of IgG-class antibodies does not differentiate between remote infection or acute disease. Genital and nongenital infections can't be distinguished through HSV serology. Results' predictive value depends on disease prevalence and pretest HSV likelihood. Repeat testing or alternative methods might be required in some cases, especially when the infection likelihood is low.
FDA ApprovedNew York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (Multiplex Flow Immunoassay)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 81621-5
- 51916-5
- 43180-9
Result Turnaround Time
1-2 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
0.6 mL
Minimum Volume
0.4 mL
Container
Plastic vial
Collection Instructions
Centrifuge and aliquot serum into a plastic vial.
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis, gross lipemia, gross icterus
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated | 14 days |
| Frozen | 14 days |