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. This test is not UKAS accredited
- 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
- Related condition
- Reference range
Not applicable
- Units
- Qualitative - Detected/Not detected
- Synonyms
- HSV, herpes
- Testing site
- Synnovis : Infection Sciences : Blackfriars Hub
- Laboratory
- Virology
- Sample type and volume required
- 2.5 - 5ml Yellow Top Serum Separation Tube (SST) Clotted Blood (for serum).
- 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.
- Turnaround time
- 3 working days
- Contacts
Infection Sciences Department at St Thomas’ Hospital
Phone: 020 7188 8008
St Thomas’ Hospital
North Wing – 5th Floor
Westminster Bridge Road
London SE1 7EHSouth London Specialist Virology Centre
Phone – Results: 02032996155
Phone – Medical Advice: 02032996298
King’s College Hospital
Cheyne Wing, 2nd Floor (opposite Liver ITU)
Denmark Hill
London SE5 9RS
DX address: South London (PHL) Kings DX 6570200 Peckham 90SE