Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) Serology

Description: 
Qualitative chemiluminescent assay for type specific antibodies to HSV-1 and -2. The initial test detects both HSV-1 and -2 IgG. Positive samples are then tested for type-specific HSV-2 IgG. HSV seroconversion may not be detected until several months following a primary infection. Do not request for acute diagnosis; instead send appropriate sample for PCR. This test is available routinely Mon to Fri.
Clinical details: 
Gingivostomatitis in primary orolabial herpes infection
Orolabial herpes
encephalitis.
Keratitis/dendritic ulcer
meningitis
Mollaret's syndrome
retinitis
disseminated herpes
fulminant herpes hepatitis
neonatal herpes
genital herpes
Encephalitis .
immunocompromised host
Reference range: 

Not applicable

Synonyms or keywords: 
HSV, herpes
Units: 
Qualitative - Detected/Not detected
Sample type and Volume required: 
2.5 – 5ml Yellow Top Serum Separation Tube (SST) Clotted Blood (for serum).
Turnaround time: 
3 working days
Special sample instructions: 

Consult Virology Registrar if encephalitis suspected.

Storage and transport: 
Place labelled sample in a sealed sample bag and send to Central Specimen Reception (CSR). To prevent sample haemolysis please store samples in refrigerator if a delay in sending samples to CSR is unavoidable.
Contacts:
Infection Sciences Department at St Thomas' Hospital
020 7188 8008
St Thomas' Hospital
North Wing - 5th Floor
Westminster Bridge Road
London SE1 7EH
Core opening hours: Monday-Friday 0900-1730


For clinical advice or interpretation of results, please contact the laboratory in the first instance.

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Last updated: 21/07/2021