Herpes
Also known as: Herpes culture; Herpes simplex viral culture; HSV DNA; HSV by PCR; HSV-1 or HSV-2 IgM or IgG; HSV-1; HSV-2; HHV1; HHV2
Formal name: Herpes Simplex Virus, Type1 and Type 2
Related tests: TORCH; CSF analysis
At a Glance
Why Get Tested?
To screen for or diagnose infection with the herpes simplex virus
When to Get Tested?
If you have symptoms of an infection with the herpes simplex virus, such as blisters in the genital area or symptoms of viral meningitis
Sample Required?
A swab or scraping from a blister or sore in the infected area or a blood sample drawn from a vein in your arm; for meningitis or encephalitis, a sample of cerebrospinal fluid
Test Preparation Needed?
None
