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Herpes simplex virus 1/2 IgG and IgM antibodies

TORCH · also called HSV serology

What it measures

Measures antibodies to HSV-1 and HSV-2. Type-specific IgG shows past exposure; the test helps assess risk of neonatal herpes and supports diagnosis when lesions are absent.

Specimen and preparation

Specimen: Serum
Tube: Gold top

Reference range

Group	Range
IgG	Negative
IgM	Negative

Reference ranges differ between laboratories, methods and populations. Always use the range printed on your own lab report.

Causes of high values

HSV-1 IgG: past oral or genital infection
HSV-2 IgG: usually genital infection
IgM: recent infection or reactivation (poorly specific)

Method

Type-specific glycoprotein G ELISA/CLIA

Good to know

Active lesions are best diagnosed by PCR of a swab; serology cannot date an infection reliably.

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