Herpes Simplex IgM, Abs, with IgG Reflex




Test Mnemonic

HSVGM

CPT Codes

  • 86695 if reflexed - QTY (1)
  • 86696 if reflexed - QTY (1)
  • 86694 - QTY (1)

Aliases

  • HerpeSelect
  • HSV Antibodies

Includes

  • HSV IgG Type 1 Antibody
  • HSV IgG Type 2 Antibody
  • HSV IgM Types 1 and 2 (combined) Antibodies

Performing Laboratory

Cleveland Clinic Laboratories


Specimen Requirements

Volume Type Container Collect Temperature Transport Temperature Special Instructions
1 mLSerumSST (Gold) Refrigerated 

Alternate Specimen Requirements

Volume Type Container Collect Temperature Transport Temperature Special Instructions
1 mLSerumNo additive (Red) Refrigerated 

Minimum Specimen Requirements

Volume Type Container Collect Temperature Transport Temperature Special Instructions
0.5 mL     

Stability

Environmental Condition Description
Ambient1 day
Refrigerated7 days
Frozen14 days

Days Performed

Tue, Fri

Turnaround Time

1 - 4 days

Methodology

Name Description
Enzyme Immunoassay (EIA) 
Multiplex 

Reference Range

Special Info

FOR HSVM: Avoid using hemolyzed, lipemic, or bacterially contaminated sera. FOR HSVG12:Avoid hemolyzed samples. Avoid multiple freeze thaw cycles (3 is acceptable).

Clinical Info

HSV IgM testing will reflex HSV IgG 1 and 2 testing, followed by an overall HSV interpretation. HSV IgM test may only be considered where HSV PCR is negative but HSV infection is clinically suspected yet all other causes have already been ruled out. HSV IgM antibody test is used as an aid in diagnosis of primary HSV infection. The test may become positive during HSV reactivation. Clinical correlation is required. HSV IgG sero-conversion may take several weeks after a primary infection. Repeat testing maybe warranted if clinically indicated. Early institution of anti-virals may abrogate or delay humoral response. Please pay close attention to the overall HSV interpretation.

Clinical Limitation

Cannot exclude recent primary HSV infection if the specimen collected within 7-10 days after onset the of signs and symptoms. Non-specific reactivity is not uncommon with HSV IgM serology.