Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) Types 1 and 2-specific Antibodies, IgG

Casandra

Casandra Test Code LC22711Version 1 (DRAFT)

Performing Lab

Lab LabcorpLab Test ID 164099CPT Codes 86695, 86696

Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) Types 1 and 2-specific Antibodies, IgG

Also known as: HSV-1, HSV-2

Clinical Use

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Use

This test is used to detect IgG antibodies specific to HSV types 1 and/or 2 infection and confirm or rule out possible infection with herpes simplex types 1 and/or 2 virus in prenatal patients in whom HSV 2 infection can cause serious prenatal disease. In a patient with no history of lesion disease, a positive result for this test may be indicative that the primary infection was asymptomatic. Once infected by HSV, it is possible for a patient to shed the virus without the development of lesions (asymptomatic shedding). This test does not indicate the site of HSV infection. The magnitude of the Index Value is not indicative of the amount of antibody present in the patient sample. There is a considerable homology between HSV-1 and HSV-2 antigens, so that antibodies formed against either virus are highly cross-reactive. These assays are based on purified recombinant glycoprotein G-1 (HSV-1) or G-2 (HSV-2) antigens.

Special Instructions

There is a considerable homology between HSV-1 and HSV-2 antigens, so that antibodies formed against either virus are highly crossreactive. These assays are based on purified recombinant glycoprotein G-1 (HSV-1) or G-2 (HSV-2) antigens.

Limitations

Serum samples collected too early in the course of infection may not have detectable levels of HSV IgG. In cases of suspected early disease, a repeat serum specimen should be collected 14-21 days later and submitted for testing. The predictive value of positive or negative results depends on the prevalence of disease and the pretest likelihood of HSV-1 and HSV-2. False-positive results may occur. Repeat testing, or testing by a different method, may be indicated in some settings. This test is intended for qualitative determination only. The magnitude of the Index Value is not indicative of the amount of antibody present in the patient sample.

Test Details