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HSV 1, IgG & IgM

HSV 1, IgG & IgM

Also referred as
Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 IgM & IgG Antibody test
109+ booked recently
For men & women
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48 hours
Contains
2 tests
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The HSV 1, IgG & IgM test is a blood test done to detect the presence of immunoglobulin M (IgM) and immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies against herpes simplex virus (HSV) type 1, known to cause oral herpes. This test helps determine the stage of the infection, differentiate between recent (acute) and past (chronic) infections, and aid in the timely management of the infection.

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Understanding HSV 1, IgG & IgM

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection (herpes) is a skin infection that may spread through skin-to-skin contact with an infected person. HSV-1 usually causes oral herpes infection, which is characterized by painful blisters or sores around the lips and mouth. 

The HSV 1, IgG & IgM test measures two types of antibodies: Immunoglobulin G (IgG) and Immunoglobulin M (IgM) produced as an immune response against HSV-1. IgM antibodies suggest a recent or acute infection, as they are produced early in the immune response and usually decline after a few months. IgG antibodies indicate past or chronic infection with the virus, as they typically develop after the initial infection and persist for life.

This test is often recommended when an individual exhibits symptoms suggestive of oral herpes, such as painful and recurring blisters (ulcers) on the lips and around the mouth, fever, body aches, sore throat, and swollen lymph nodes, etc. It also helps distinguish between recent (acute) and past (chronic) herpes infections. 

No special preparation is  required for this test. Eat and drink as per your normal routine. Inform your doctor about all the medication or supplements that you may be taking as few of them may affect your test results, potentially requiring adjustments or temporary discontinuation before the test.

Lab test results may vary across laboratories. Don’t self-medicate at home solely based on these results and always consult a doctor for proper understanding of the test results. The insights from this test will help your doctor formulate your overall treatment plan based on your specific health needs.formulate your treatment plan.

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What does HSV 1, IgG & IgM measure?

Contains 2 tests

The HSV 1, IgG & IgM test is a blood test used to measure two types of antibodies: Immunoglobulin G (IgG) and Immunoglobulin M (IgM) against herpes simplex virus (HSV) type 1. IgG antibodies indicate a past infection or long-term presence of the virus, while IgM antibodies suggest a recent or acute infection. By identifying these antibodies, this test helps determine if an individual has been exposed to the virus and distinguishes between new and existing infections.

Getting tested helps in the diagnosis and management of herpes infections. Early and precise identification of HSV infections allows timely medical intervention, reducing symptoms and preventing complications. 

 

The Herpes Simplex Virus 1 IgG test determines the presence of IgG antibodies against HSV-1 in response to the Herpes infection. The body begins to make IgG antibodies around 18 to 21 days after the exposure of the virus and remains in the body for life. The presence of IgG antibodies generally indicates past exposure and immunity against herpes infection. Getting tested helps manage herpes infection and prevent it from spreading further as the HSV-1 remains dormant in the body after the initial infection and can reactivate at various times, leading to recurrent outbreaks.

Know more about Herpes Simplex Virus 1 IgG

The Herpes Simplex Virus 1, IgM test detects the presence of IgM antibodies that are produced as a body's initial response to an HSV-1 infection. They are critical in the initial control of the virus. IgM antibodies may take up to 10 days to develop. Also, these antibodies are usually present in higher concentrations shortly after infection and eventually decrease after some time (7-10 days). Therefore, the presence of HSV-1 IgM antibodies is a strong indication of recent exposure and primary infection.

Early detection allows doctors to detect symptoms quickly and provide necessary medical interventions to individuals suffering from HSV infection, leading to better outcomes and improved quality of life.

 

Know more about Herpes Simplex Virus 1, IgM

FAQs related to HSV 1, IgG & IgM

The HSV 1, IgG & IgM test detects antibodies in the blood that indicate a past or recent oral herpes infection. The presence of IgG antibodies suggests a past infection, while the presence of IgM antibodies indicates a recent or active infection.
You should consider getting tested if you have symptoms of oral herpes (such as painful, recurring blisters or ulcers usually around lips and mouth, fever, body aches, sore throat, and swollen lymph nodes, etc., suggestive of oral herpes infection.
Yes, asymptomatic individuals can indeed test positive for HSV-1 IgM or IgG antibodies. A positive IgM test indicates a recent infection, even if no symptoms are present, making testing important for high-risk individuals regardless of symptom presence. Similarly, a positive IgG test signifies past exposure to the virus, reflecting previous infection even in the absence of current symptoms. Testing is essential for accurate diagnosis and understanding of HSV status, regardless of whether symptoms are evident.
The HSV-1 IgM test detects recent infections by identifying early antibodies produced shortly after exposure to the virus. In contrast, the HSV-1 IgG test identifies past infections through antibodies that develop later and remain in the body for long-term. Thus, IgM indicates recent infection, while IgG shows past exposure and long-term immunity.
Herpes can be well managed with antiviral medications, especially during outbreaks. It is advised to take only prescribed medicines and not self-medicate.
Tata 1mg ensures accurate lab test results through certified laboratories that use advanced technology and adhere to stringent quality control measures. This commitment to high standards guarantees reliable results.
Content created by
Written by:
Dr. Lipika Khurana
BDS, PGDHHM
Reviewed by:
Dr. Swati Gupta (Anand)
MBBS, MD Lab Medicine
Want to know moreRead our editorial policy
Last Updated13th Nov 2025

HSV 1, IgG & IgM test price for other cities

Price inBangaloreRs. 1139
Price inGurgaonRs. 1259
Price inNew DelhiRs. 1259
Price inMumbaiRs. 1309
Price inKolkataRs. 1259

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Contains 2 tests
Herpes Simplex Virus 1 IgG
Herpes Simplex Virus 1, IgM