• Can this test confirm encephalitis?

It is a key diagnostic tool, but doctors use it alongside clinical symptoms, physical exams, and other imaging like MRI for a definitive diagnosis.

• How long does it take to get the results?

Results are typically available within 3 to 5 business days, depending on the specific laboratory's processing time.

HSV 1 & 2 CSF Test Price in Saudi Arabia | Lahalak Medical Platform

Lahalak Medical PlatformDifferentiate Care

Medical notice: this information is for education and service understanding. It is not a diagnosis or a recommendation for an unnecessary procedure.

About this service

A laboratory test measuring IgM and IgG levels for HSV in cerebrospinal fluid. It evaluates acute or past viral infections affecting the central nervous system.

Clinical Significance

Detects active or past HSV infection within the central nervous system.
Assists in the diagnosis of viral meningitis.
Evaluates cases of encephalitis with unknown etiology.

When is this test requested?

Presence of acute neurological symptoms like severe headache or stiff neck.
Cases of unexplained seizures or altered mental status.
To differentiate between bacterial and viral CNS infections.

Interpretation of Results

The presence of IgM typically indicates a recent or active infection.
The presence of IgG may indicate a past infection or established immunity.
Results must always be correlated with clinical symptoms and other diagnostic tests.

What is included?

✓HSV IgM Antibody Measurement
✓HSV IgG Antibody Measurement
✓Detailed Laboratory Report

Conditions and notices

Fasting is not required
Requires a lumbar puncture for sample collection
Inform the doctor of any antiviral medications being taken

Frequently Asked Questions

Short answers to the FAQs published with this service.

• What is the purpose of the HSV CSF test?

The test detects antibodies for Herpes Simplex Virus (1 & 2) in the fluid surrounding the brain to help diagnose viral infections of the nervous system.

• How is the CSF sample collected?

The sample is collected through a medical procedure called a lumbar puncture (spinal tap), where a specialist withdraws a small amount of fluid from the lower back.

• Does this test require fasting?

No, fasting is not required for this laboratory test, though you should follow specific clinical instructions for the lumbar puncture procedure.

• What is the difference between IgM and IgG in this test?

Service resources and references

References and additional resources

Reference material and files associated with this service when available.

Scientific references

Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA)
CDC - Laboratory Diagnosis of HSV

Screen for Viral CNS Infections

About this service

Clinical Significance

When is this test requested?

Interpretation of Results

What is included?

Conditions and notices

Frequently Asked Questions

References and additional resources

Scientific references

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