What it measures
Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), which causes cold sores and some genital herpes. A blood test looks for antibodies, which show a past infection, while a swab of a sore or a urine sample looks for the virus itself. Many adults carry HSV-1 without symptoms.
Why people test it
- Checking whether blisters or sores are caused by herpes, using a swab.
- Finding out whether a person has had HSV-1, using a blood test.
- Included in wider sexual health screens.
Typical range
There is no numeric range. Blood tests are reported as positive, negative or equivocal for HSV-1 antibodies, and swab or urine tests as detected or not detected. The report shows how that lab reports it.
Finger-prick or vein?
For the antibody test, a finger-prick sample is usually fine and some providers offer a home kit; others take blood from a vein. Swab and urine kits look for the virus and need no blood.
An antibody result shows a past infection but not where on the body it is.