For suspected and/or active herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection, molecular testing is preferred (refer to Herpes Simplex Virus by PCR (0060041)). If pursuing antibody testing, refer to Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 Glycoprotein G-Specific Antibody, IgG by ELISA, CSF (0050379) and Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 Glycoprotein G-Specific Antibody, IgG by ELISA, CSF (0050359). If acute HSV infection is suspected, molecular testing is preferred (refer to Herpes Simplex Virus by PCR (0060041)).
- Patient Preparation
- Collect
- CSF.
- Specimen Preparation
- Transfer 1 mL CSF to an ARUP Standard Transport Tube. (Min: 0.5 mL)
- Storage/Transport Temperature
- Refrigerated.
- Unacceptable Conditions
- Specimens types other than CSF. Contaminated, heat-inactivated or hemolyzed specimens.
- Remarks
- Indicate source on test request form.
- Stability
- Ambient: 8 hours; Refrigerated: 2 weeks; Frozen: 1 year
0.89 IV or less | Negative - No significant level of detectable HSV IgG antibody. |
0.90-1.09 IV | Equivocal - Questionable presence of IgG antibodies. Repeat testing in 10-14 days may be helpful. |
1.10 IV or greater | Positive - IgG antibody to HSV detected which may indicate a current or past HSV infection. |
Fourfold or greater rise in CSF antibodies to herpes on specimens at least 4 weeks apart are found in 74-94% of patients with herpes encephalitis. Specificity of the test based on a single CSF testing is not established. Presently PCR is the primary means of establishing a diagnosis of herpes encephalitis.
Component Test Code* | Component Chart Name | LOINC |
---|---|---|
0050394 | HSV 1/2 Antibody Screen IgG, CSF | 13249-8 |
- Herpes Simplex Antibodies, IgG
- Herpes Simplex Serology, Serum HSV 1,2
- HSV 1, 2 IgG
- HSV 1,2
- HSV CSF IgG