Herpes (HSV-1) IgG Test - Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 (HSV-1) IgG Test

This serological test measures the titer (quantity) of immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies directed against herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). These antibodies appear weeks after the initial infection and persist for life, indicating past exposure to the virus and the presence of long-lasting humoral immunity. The test cannot distinguish between a recent and a past infection, nor does it accurately determine the site of infection (oral or genital) because HSV-1 can infect both areas. It is an indicator of exposure, not necessarily of active disease.