Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) 1+2 Antibodies Panel IgG & IgM Serum Test
Short Name: HSV 1+2 IgG IgM Panel
Also known as: HSV 1&2 Antibody Panel, Herpes Antibody Blood Test, HSV IgG IgM Serum Test, HSV Serology Panel, Herpes Simplex Antibody Profile
Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) 1+2 Antibodies Panel IgG & IgM Serum Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹1,334. Uses Chemiluminescent Immunoassay (CLIA) on Serum samples. Results in Same day if sample is received by 9:00 AM. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
🩺 Medically Reviewed By
Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal
Consultant Microbiologist · Reg: 27670
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026
Overview
The HSV 1+2 Antibodies Panel IgG & IgM Serum Test is used to determine whether an individual has been infected with Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1, Type 2, or both. It helps differentiate between a recent primary infection (indicated by IgM antibodies) and a past or established infection (indicated by IgG antibodies). This test is valuable for diagnostic confirmation in symptomatic individuals, screening asymptomatic individuals with known or suspected exposure, prenatal evaluation in pregnant women with a history of herpes, and guiding clinical decisions regarding antiviral therapy and patient counseling.
- Test Code
- 747
- CPT Code
- 86694, 86695, 86696
- ICD Code
- A60.0, A60.1, A60.9, B00.9
- Price
- ₹1,334
- Sample Type
- Serum
- Result Time
- Same day if sample is received by 9:00 AM
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Chemiluminescent Immunoassay (CLIA)
Sample Collection
No special preparation, fasting, or dietary restrictions are required before this test. Inform your healthcare provider about any medications, supplements, or immunosuppressive treatments you are currently taking, as these may influence antibody levels.
Method: Venipuncture
Laboratory Analysis
A certified phlebotomist will collect approximately 2 mL of blood from a vein in your arm using standard venipuncture technique. The procedure typically takes less than five minutes and causes minimal discomfort, comparable to a small pinch.
Report Delivery
Apply gentle pressure to the puncture site with a cotton ball or gauze for 2 to 3 minutes to minimize bruising. A small bruise may develop at the site, which typically resolves within a few days. You can resume normal activities immediately after the blood draw.
Timeline: Same day if sample is received by 9:00 AM
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The HSV 1+2 Antibodies Panel IgG & IgM Serum Test is used to determine whether an individual has been infected with Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1, Type 2, or both. It helps differentiate between a recent primary infection (indicated by IgM antibodies) and a past or established infection (indicated by IgG antibodies). This test is valuable for diagnostic confirmation in symptomatic individuals, screening asymptomatic individuals with known or suspected exposure, prenatal evaluation in pregnant women with a history of herpes, and guiding clinical decisions regarding antiviral therapy and patient counseling.
How to Prepare
- No fasting is required before sample collection
- Stay well-hydrated to facilitate blood draw
- Wear short-sleeved or loose-fitting clothing for easy arm access
- Inform the phlebotomist if you have a history of fainting during blood draws
- Disclose all current medications and supplements to your healthcare provider
- Avoid strenuous exercise of the collection arm for a few hours after the draw
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal — MBBS, MD (Microbiology) · Reg. No. 27670
"HSV infections are widespread, with many carriers remaining asymptomatic and unknowingly transmitting the virus. This IgG/IgM panel helps differentiate between recent and past infections. IgM antibodies typically appear within one to two weeks of initial exposure and can also recur during viral reactivation, though false-positive IgM results have been documented. IgG antibodies indicate prior exposure and generally persist for life, offering a reliable marker of established infection. Clinicians should always correlate serological findings with clinical presentation and patient history. Equivocal results warrant repeat testing in two to four weeks. Confirmatory type-specific glycoprotein G-based assays may be considered when initial results are ambiguous. Early identification enables appropriate antiviral management, counseling on transmission prevention, and informed reproductive planning."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Hemolyzed, severely lipemic, or grossly contaminated samples
- Sample volume less than the minimum required (1 mL serum)
- Samples received in non-compliant or leaking containers
- Samples not stored or shipped according to stability guidelines
- Unlabeled or mislabeled samples
Understanding Your Results
Consult an infectious disease specialist, gynecologist, or your primary care physician if you experience recurrent outbreaks of blisters or sores, have a positive or equivocal test result, are planning a pregnancy or are pregnant with a history of herpes, have a sexual partner recently diagnosed with herpes, or have unexplained genital symptoms such as ulcers, itching, or burning sensations.
Limitations
- ⚠Cannot reliably distinguish between active genital and oral infection based on antibody type alone
- ⚠IgM antibodies can produce false positives and may appear during reactivation, not only primary infection
- ⚠Cross-reactivity between HSV-1 and HSV-2 IgM antibodies can occur, limiting type-specific interpretation of IgM
- ⚠This test does not confirm the presence of active virus or viral shedding; viral culture or PCR may be needed
- ⚠Results should always be interpreted alongside clinical presentation and patient history
Risks & Considerations
- ●Minor bruising or swelling at the blood draw site
- ●Brief pain or discomfort during needle insertion
- ●Rarely, lightheadedness or dizziness during or after blood collection
- ●Very rare risk of infection at the puncture site
Interfering Factors
- ●Hemolyzed, lipemic, or icteric serum samples may interfere with assay accuracy
- ●Presence of heterophilic antibodies or human anti-animal antibodies may cause false results
- ●Recent blood transfusion or intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) therapy may affect antibody levels
- ●Immunosuppressive medications or conditions may suppress antibody production leading to false negatives
- ●Early-stage infection before seroconversion (window period) may yield false-negative results
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) 1+2 Antibodies Panel IgG & IgM Serum Test | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) 1+2 Antibodies Panel IgG & IgM Serum Test | Detects only IgG antibodies, indicating past exposure. Does not differentiate between recent and established infections. The IgG & IgM panel provides a more complete picture by also measuring acute-phase IgM antibodies. | Detects only IgM antibodies, suggesting recent or active infection. May produce false positives. The combined panel is preferred as it includes both IgG and IgM for comprehensive serological assessment. | PCR directly detects viral DNA and is considered the gold standard for confirming active HSV infection from lesion swabs. The antibody panel is preferred for screening and determining exposure history when lesions are not present. | Viral culture isolates the live virus from active lesions. It is highly specific but has lower sensitivity, especially for healing or recurrent lesions. Serological testing is more suitable for asymptomatic screening. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the HSV 1+2 Antibodies Panel IgG & IgM Serum Test?
Why is this test important?
What is the difference between IgG and IgM antibodies?
Do I need to fast before this test?
How is the sample collected for this test?
When will I receive my test results?
What does a positive HSV IgG result mean?
What does a positive HSV IgM result mean?
Can this test distinguish between HSV-1 and HSV-2?
Is home sample collection available for this test?
Can this test detect herpes even if I have no symptoms?
What should I do if my test results are positive?
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