
HSV-1&2 (Herpes Simplex Virus) DNA Detection by RT-PCR









The HSV-1&2 (Herpes Simplex Virus) DNA Detection by RT-PCR test is done to detect the genetic material (DNA) of herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and type 2 (HSV-2) in the blood sample. It confirms an active infection and differentiates between HSV types.












Understanding HSV-1&2 (Herpes Simplex Virus) DNA Detection by RT-PCR
Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is a lifelong infection transmitted through direct contact with oral/genital secretions. HSV-1 typically causes oral herpes, while HSV-2 causes genital herpes, though either can infect both areas.
The HSV-1&2 (Herpes Simplex Virus) DNA Detection by RT-PCR uses PCR to identify HSV DNA in blood samples, offering high precision for active infections.
This test is often performed when an individual exhibits symptoms suggestive of a herpes infection, such as sores or blisters around the mouth or genital area, recurring blisters or ulcers, pain during urination, unusual discharge from the urethra and vagina, fever, body aches, sore throat, etc. It may also be done as a part of routine screenings for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or pre-pregnancy check-ups, as HSV can be transmitted to the baby during childbirth (neonatal herpes).
A positive result means that HSV DNA has been found, confirming an active infection. A negative result means that no viral DNA was detected in the sample at the time of testing. This helps the doctor understand the condition better and decide the best course of treatment or preventive steps if needed.
No specific preparation is needed to get the HSV-1&2 (Herpes Simplex Virus) DNA Detection by RT-PCR test done. Eat and drink normally before the test. However, a clinical history is required, and a clinician's number is needed for notification during the test procedure.
Talk to the doctor about specific test results. Narrate the complete medical history and symptoms to help them correlate the clinical and laboratory findings and formulate an treatment plan.
Please note: This is an outsourced test. The sample for this test is collected by TATA 1MG and processed at a NABL accredited partnered lab.
What does HSV-1&2 (Herpes Simplex Virus) DNA Detection by RT-PCR measure?
The HSV-1&2 (Herpes Simplex Virus) DNA Detection by RT-PCR test measures the presence of herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) DNA and Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 (HSV-2) DNA in the blood sample. By detecting the genetic material (DNA) of the virus, this test tells whether the virus is currently active in the body.





FAQs related to HSV-1&2 (Herpes Simplex Virus) DNA Detection by RT-PCR
- About Genital Herpes – CDC Basic Fact Sheet [Internet]. CDC; 20 Feb. 2024 [Accessed 16 Apr. 2025]. Available From:
- Screening for Genital Herpes [Internet]. CDC; 20 Feb. 2024 [Accessed 16 Apr. 2025]. Available from:
- Herpes simplex virus [Internet]. WHO; 05 Apr. 2023 [Accessed 16 Apr. 2025]. Available from:
- Kessler HH, Mühlbauer G, Rinner B, Stelzl E, Berger A, Dörr HW, Santner B, Marth E, Rabenau H. Detection of Herpes simplex virus DNA by real-time PCR. J Clin Microbiol. 2000 Jul;38(7):2638-42. [Accessed 16 Apr. 2025]. Available from:
- Tada DG, Khandelwal N. Serum HSV-1 and 2 IgM in Sexually Transmitted Diseases - More for Screening Less for Diagnosis: An Evaluation of Clinical Manifestation. J Glob Infect Dis. 2012 Jul;4(3):S1-4. [Accessed 16 Apr. 2025]. Available from:
- Nath P, Kabir MA, Doust SK, Ray A. Diagnosis of Herpes Simplex Virus: Laboratory and Point-of-Care Techniques. Infect Dis Rep. 2021 Jun 2;13(2):518-539. [Accessed 16 Apr. 2025]. Available from:
- Sauerbrei A. Herpes Genitalis: Diagnosis, Treatment and Prevention. Geburtshilfe Frauenheilkd. 2016 Dec;76(12):1310-1317. [Accessed 16 Apr. 2025]. Available from:
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- FBS (Fasting Blood Sugar)
- Thyroid Profile Total (T3, T4 & TSH)
- HbA1c (Glycosylated Hemoglobin)
- PPBS (Postprandial Blood Sugar)
- Lipid Profile
- Vitamin D (25-Hydroxy)
- Urine R/M (Urine Routine & Microscopy)
- Coronavirus Covid -19 test- RT PCR
- LFT (Liver Function Test)
- KFT (Kidney Function Test)
- TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) Ultrasensitive
- ESR (Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate)
- Uric Acid, Serum
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- CRP (C-Reactive Protein), Quantitative
- Urine C/S (Urine Culture and Sensitivity)
- Serum Electrolytes
- Serum Calcium
- Serum Creatinine
- Diabetes Screening (HbA1C & Fasting Sugar)
- KFT with Electrolytes (Kidney Function Test with Electrolytes)
- Cholesterol - Total
- Hb (Hemoglobin)
- Complete Hemogram (CBC & ESR)





