Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) Test - IgG

The herpes simplex virus (HSV) test is used to check if someone has a herpes simplex virus infection. It often involves detecting HSV genetic material from a swab taken from sores or painful blisters. If that test is not possible, a blood test is done to look for HSV antibodies, specifically IgM and IgG. On your lab report, this test may be listed as HSV DNA, HSV by PCR, HSV 1, HSV 2, HSV IgM, HSV IgG, Herpes Simplex Viral Culture, or Herpes Culture.

There are two herpes simplex virus types:

• HSV 1- This virus causes blisters in and near the mouth. It often spreads through the saliva (spit) of infected individuals.
• HSV 2- This virus commonly causes genital herpes, a sexually transmitted disease, that is passed through sexual contact from someone who has this infection.

The infection can be caught even if there are no herpes simplex virus symptoms. In such cases, it is better to have a blood test to detect antibodies to HSV. HSV infection is not known to cause any major health problems. However, genital herpes during pregnancy can harm the developing baby and at childbirth, leading to infection by the herpes simplex virus in infants, which could be serious.

A doctor may advise the HSV test in individuals with symptoms suggestive of herpes symptoms, such as:

• Fever or flu-like symptoms
• Swelling of glands
• Painful blisters or sores around the mouth, genitals, anus, and buttocks
• Painful urination
• Unusual discharge from the vagina or urethra (tube that carries urine out of the body)
• Tingling sensation or pain in the infected region

The HSV test is usually performed once or repeated, as advised by the doctor, when herpes simplex virus symptoms are observed or if infection is suspected in the absence of symptoms.

The HSV test helps detect an HSV infection, depending on the method used to test. It can identify an active infection by detecting the virus or detecting antibodies from past infections.

What to Expect Before the Herpes Simplex Virus Test

No fasting is required for a standalone Herpes Simplex Virus test. You can eat and drink normally. However, if it is part of a broader package that includes fasting tests, your doctor may advise fasting for 8-12 hours. Avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours before the test, as intense physical activity can temporarily raise Herpes Simplex Virus levels and affect interpretation. Always inform your doctor about any ongoing medications.

What to Expect During the Blood Collection

A phlebotomist cleans the skin with an antiseptic, then places an elastic band around your upper arm to make the veins easier to access. A small needle is inserted into the vein; you may feel a brief pinch. Blood is collected into a labelled tube in under a minute.

What to Expect After the Herpes Simplex Virus Test

A small cotton swab and bandage are placed over the site to stop any minor bleeding. You can return to normal activities immediately. Minor bruising is normal and disappears quickly. If dizzy, sit and rest for a few minutes.

The key parameters in the Herpes Simplex Virus test is:

• Detection of the genetic material of HSV using a test called the polymerase chain reaction (PCR).
• Detection of IgM and IgG antibodies that are specific to HSV infection.

The table below shows the HSV test normal range:

Note:

• Normal HSV - IgG and IgM levels can vary based on age, sex, and the laboratory method used.
• Medical history and symptoms must be considered along with the test results by the doctor.

The table below provides a general interpretation of HSV test results, depending on whether the levels are negative, positive, or borderline.

The HSV test is generally safe and has very little risk. Mild pain, bruising, or slight bleeding may occur at the needle site in a blood test, while slight bleeding and discomfort could be experienced at the site of swab collection. This effects usually resolves on their own.

Limitations

Similar to any other test, the Herpes Simplex Virus test may also have some limitations:

• It cannot be used alone to diagnose HSV infection. Other follow-up tests must be done to confirm the diagnosis.
• A negative result cannot completely rule out HSV infection.
• Positive blood results should be evaluated along with other tests and clinical findings.

Depending on your HSV test results and symptoms, your doctor may recommend additional tests, such as the following, to confirm a diagnosis or identify the underlying cause:

• Herpes simplex profile assessment
• HIV test
• Other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) tests
• CSF assessment in brain and spinal cord involvement