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Herpes Tests - Results
About this test
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.
| By: | Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: December 21, 2010 |
| Medical Review: | Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine Jeanne Marrazzo, MD, MPH - Infectious Disease | |
© 1995-2011 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
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