Serum herpes simplex antibodi... Health Article

Definition

Serum herpes simplex antibodies is a blood test that looks for antibodies to the herpes simplex virus.

Alternative Names

Herpes serology

How the test is performed

Blood is drawn from a vein, usually from the inside of the elbow or the back of the hand. The site is cleaned with germ-killing medicine (antiseptic). The health care provider wraps an elastic band around the upper arm to apply pressure to the area and make the vein swell with blood.

Next, the health care provider gently inserts a needle into the vein. The blood collects into an airtight vial or tube attached to the needle. The elastic band is removed from your arm.

Once the blood has been collected, the needle is removed, and the puncture site is covered to stop any bleeding.

In infants or young children, a sharp tool called a lancet may be used to puncture the skin and make it bleed. The blood collects into a small glass tube called a pipette, or onto a slide or test strip. A bandage may be placed over the area if there is any bleeding.

The sample is taken to the laboratory and tested for the presence and amount of antibodies.

How to prepare for the test

No special preparation is needed for this test.

How the test will feel

When the needle is inserted to draw blood, some people feel moderate pain, while others feel only a prick or stinging sensation. Afterward, there may be some throbbing.

Why the test is performed

The test is done to find out whether a person has ever been infected with oral or genital herpes.

It looks for antibodies to herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) or herpes simplex virus 2 (HSV-2). This test does not detect the virus itself.

Normal Values

A negative test means you have not been exposured to the herpes virus.