Herpes Tests: Results
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Results
Herpes tests are done to find the herpes simplex virus (HSV). Results for a rapid viral culture may take 2 to 3 days, while results for a standard culture can take up to 14 days. Antigen detection test results are ready in a day. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test results are ready in 1 to 3 days. Results from an antibody blood test are ready in 2 days. The results from an antibody test called an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA, EIA) may be ready in about 2 hours.
| Normal: | Normal results are called negative. |
|---|---|
No HSV grows in the viral culture. | |
No herpes antibodies are present in the blood. | |
| Abnormal: | Abnormal results that show HSV are called positive. |
HSV grows in the viral culture. | |
HSV antigens or DNA are found. | |
Antibodies to the herpes virus are present in the blood. |
Samples taken from newly formed sores containing fluid (blisters) are generally better than samples collected from older, crusted sores.
A normal (negative) test result does not mean you do not have a herpes infection. If the first test is negative but you have symptoms of herpes, more tests may be done.
| Last updated: | February 05, 2007 |
|---|---|
| Author: | Jan Nissl, RN, BS |
| Reviewed By: | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine, Jeanne Marrazzo, MD, MPH - Infectious Disease |
| Editors: | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer |
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