Description

The Herpes Simplex Virus Types 1 and 2 PCR Swab Test detects the DNA of herpes simplex viruses in a specimen collected from an active sore, blister, or lesion. This test helps identify an active HSV infection and distinguishes between HSV-1 and HSV-2.

What Does This Test Detect?

Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 (HSV-1)

Commonly associated with oral herpes (cold sores), HSV-1 can also cause genital herpes.

Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 (HSV-2)

Most commonly associated with genital herpes, HSV-2 can cause painful blisters or sores in the genital or anal area.

Test Details

  • Method: Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)
  • Specimen: Swab collected from an active lesion
  • Tests For: HSV-1 and HSV-2 viral DNA
  • Fasting: Not required

Note: This test is intended for active lesions and does not detect antibodies from previous HSV infections. A negative result does not completely rule out herpes infection.