Herpes Simplex Virus 1 (IgG), Type-Specific Antibody Test
This test measures IgG antibodies specific to Herpes Simplex Virus type 1 (HSV-1) in a blood sample. HSV-1 is one of two closely related herpes simplex virus serotypes, and this assay is designed to tell it apart from HSV-2.
About this test
Herpes Simplex Virus type 1 and type 2 are closely related but distinct serotypes. Quest describes HSV-1 as more commonly associated with infections of non-genital sites, while HSV-2 is more commonly associated with genital tract and neonatal infections.
HSV overall is associated with a range of clinical presentations, including genital tract infections, neonatal herpes, meningoencephalitis, keratoconjunctivitis and gingivostomatitis, though Quest notes that specific typing is not usually required to evaluate or manage those presentations. Quest also notes that antibodies to HSV-1 take time to become detectable after exposure, using this type-specific assay, and that performance has not been established for pediatric populations, neonatal screening, or people who are immunocompromised.
Test details
| Quest code | 3636 |
|---|---|
| Methodology | Immunoassay |
| Sample type | 1 mL serum |
| Collection | Quest patient service center |
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Quest resources
Additional details
What this test looks at
The test reports IgG antibody levels specific to HSV-1, distinguishing it from HSV-2 on the same immunoassay platform. A serum sample is used, and Quest notes that antibodies take time to become detectable after exposure with this assay.
Limitations to know about
Quest states that performance of this assay has not been established for use in a pediatric population, for neonatal screening, or for testing of people who are immunocompromised. It also notes that specific HSV typing is not usually required to evaluate or manage the clinical presentations HSV is associated with.
Order online and a physician order is included — no doctor's visit and no insurance needed. Your sample is collected at a Quest Diagnostics patient service center.
Laboratory results should always be interpreted by a licensed clinician who knows your health history. This page is information about a test, not medical advice.
Frequently asked questions
What does this test measure?
It measures IgG antibodies specific to Herpes Simplex Virus type 1 in a serum sample, using immunoassay methodology.
How is the sample collected?
The test uses a serum sample from a routine blood draw.
Do I need to prepare for this test?
No preparation instructions are listed for this test, though people follow any instructions their ordering clinician provides.
What is the difference between HSV-1 and HSV-2?
Both are herpes simplex virus serotypes. Quest describes HSV-1 as more commonly associated with infections of non-genital sites, while HSV-2 is more commonly associated with genital tract and neonatal infections. This test is specific to HSV-1.
How soon after exposure would antibodies show up on this test?
Antibodies take time to build up after exposure and Quest does not publish a specific timeframe for this assay. The test does not report on exposure timing directly, and a clinician interprets a result in the context of when exposure may have occurred.
Can I get the Herpes Simplex Virus 1 , Type-Specific Antibody test without a doctor's visit or insurance?
Yes. The $220 cash price includes an independent physician's order, so no referral is needed, and insurance is never involved.