--- title: "Herpes (HSV) Test: What It Screens For | AMH Nationwide" description: "Herpes (HSV) test what it screens covers HSV-1 and HSV-2 antibodies and viral DNA. Understand panel details and get tested. Call (877) 731-6362." author: "AMH Nationwide" date: "2026-08-27" tags: ["herpes (hsv) test what it screens"] canonical: "https://amhnationwide.com/herpes-hsv-test-what-it-screens/" last_updated: "2026-08-27" --- # Herpes (HSV) Test: What It Screens For | AMH Nationwide **By AMH Nationwide** | August 27, 2026 Herpes (HSV) test what it screens covers HSV-1 and HSV-2 antibodies and viral DNA. Understand panel details and get tested. Call (877) 731-6362. --- Herpes (HSV) test what it screens includes detection of HSV-1 and HSV-2 antibodies or viral DNA depending on the panel chosen. Panels vary by antibody or PCR testing and specimen type. Testing is routed through five national lab networks for reliable results. Call (877) 731-6362 to schedule a test. TEST BASICS ## What does the herpes (HSV) test screen for? The herpes (HSV) test screens for the presence of herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2. This includes detecting antibodies that the body produces in response to HSV infection or identifying viral DNA through molecular methods. Depending on the panel selected, the test can detect either HSV-1, HSV-2, or both. It may also distinguish between past exposure and active infection by testing for antibodies or viral genetic material. PANEL DETAILS ## How do panel sizes affect what the herpes (HSV) test screens? Panel size determines which viral components are tested and the type of test used. Smaller panels typically screen for HSV-1 and HSV-2 antibodies using serologic assays. Larger panels may include PCR-based detection of HSV DNA from lesion swabs or other specimens. Panels can vary as follows: Basic Panel: HSV-1 and HSV-2 IgG antibody detection to identify past infection. Expanded Panel: Includes HSV-1 and HSV-2 IgM antibodies to detect recent or active infection. Comprehensive Panel: Adds PCR testing for HSV DNA, useful for confirming active lesions and differentiating infection status. SPECIMEN TYPES ## What specimen types are used for the herpes (HSV) test? The herpes (HSV) test uses different specimen types depending on the panel and test method. Blood serum or plasma is required for antibody testing. Swabs from lesions or mucosal sites are collected for PCR viral DNA detection. Collection sites are coordinated through five national lab networks: [Quest Diagnostics](https://www.questdiagnostics.com/), [LabCorp](https://www.labcorp.com/), Omega Labs, United States Drug Testing Labs, and ExperTox. LAB PROCESSING ## How is the herpes (HSV) test processed at the lab? After specimen collection, samples are routed to one of the five national lab networks for analysis. Serologic tests use enzyme immunoassays to detect HSV antibodies. Molecular tests use polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to detect viral DNA with high sensitivity. All non-negative antibody screens undergo review by a certified Medical Review Officer as part of standard processing to ensure accuracy. ## Ready to Screen for Herpes (HSV)? Call (877) 731-6362 to discuss which herpes (HSV) test panel fits your needs and schedule your lab visit today. [Call (877) 731-6362](tel:+18777316362)[Contact Us](https://amhnationwide.com/contact-us/) WHO ORDERS ## Who typically orders the herpes (HSV) test? Healthcare providers often order herpes (HSV) testing for patients with symptoms such as genital or oral sores, or when screening for sexually transmitted infections. It is also used for patients with known exposure to HSV to confirm infection status. Employers or legal entities may request testing as part of health screenings, though testing must comply with applicable laws and regulations. PRICING ## What determines the cost of the herpes (HSV) test? Pricing for the herpes (HSV) test varies depending on the panel size and detection method chosen. Serologic panels are generally less expensive than PCR-based tests. Costs also depend on the [detection window](https://amhnationwide.com/hair-follicle-drug-test-detection-window/) and specimen type. For an accurate quote and to schedule testing, call (877) 731-6362. TESTING PROCESS ## How do I get tested for herpes (HSV) with AMH Nationwide? AMH Nationwide provides the lab order and directs you to a nearby collection site within the national lab networks. There is no online ordering available. After collection, your specimen is analyzed, and results are reported confidentially. To start the process, call (877) 731-6362 to speak with a representative who will guide you on the appropriate panel and collection location. AMH Reviewed & Maintained By AMH Nationwide Customer Service AMH Nationwide is BBB A+ accredited and routes every order through Quest Diagnostics, LabCorp, Omega Labs, United States Drug Testing Labs, or ExperTox, all of which use multiple lab certification agencies and standards such as [SAMHSA](https://www.samhsa.gov/workplace/drug-testing)-aligned laboratory protocols, the ANSI National Accreditation Board for forensic testing and calibration, the College of American Pathologists (CAP), and Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA). Every non-negative screen is reviewed by a certified Medical Review Officer as part of standard processing before a result is released, and chain-of-custody documentation is maintained on every collection. This page does not constitute medical or legal advice. **Last updated:** July 2026 You May Also Need [Nail Drug TestingNo head or body hair available? A 5-panel fingernail test covers a similar look-back window.Learn more →](https://amhnationwide.com/5-panel-fingernail-drug-test/)[ChildGuard: Environmental ExposureConcerned about a child or loved one? ChildGuard screens for exposure to drugs in their environment.Learn more →](https://amhnationwide.com/5-panel-hair-drug-test-environmental-exposure-childguard/)[Shorten the Detection WindowShortened options like 30 and 60 day hair panels are also available, useful when a urine test’s 1-3 day window is too short.Learn more →](https://amhnationwide.com/30-day-hair-drug-test/)[Hair ETG Alcohol TestAlso need alcohol testing? The hair ETG test screens for alcohol use, and can be added to the same collection.Learn more →](https://amhnationwide.com/etg-and-peth/) Frequently Asked Questions ## Common Questions Yes, most herpes (HSV) test panels differentiate between HSV-1 and HSV-2 antibodies or viral DNA to identify the specific virus type causing infection. Result turnaround times vary by lab network and test type but typically range from 1 to 5 business days after specimen collection. Insurance coverage depends on your provider and the reason for testing. Contact your insurance company to confirm benefits before testing. Antibody tests detect immune response to HSV indicating past or current infection. PCR tests detect viral DNA and are used to identify active infections, especially from lesion swabs. Yes, antibody testing can detect past HSV exposure even if you have no symptoms. PCR testing typically requires active lesions for accurate detection. No special preparation is generally needed for antibody testing. For PCR tests, collecting lesion swabs promptly when sores are present improves detection accuracy. Sources • [SAMHSA – Mandatory Guidelines for Federal Workplace Drug Testing Programs](https://www.samhsa.gov/workplace/drug-testing) • [U.S. DOT – 49 CFR Part 40 – Procedures for Transportation Workplace Drug and Alcohol Testing Programs](https://www.transportation.gov/odapc/part40) • [CDC – National Center for Health Statistics – Drug Use FastStats](https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/drug-use.htm) • [Quest Diagnostics – Employer Solutions, Hair Testing Methodology](https://www.questdiagnostics.com/) • [LabCorp – Occupational Testing Services](https://www.labcorp.com/) ## Ready to get started? AMH Nationwide provides the lab order and arranges collection nationwide. Every non-negative result reviewed by a certified Medical Review Officer. Call (877) 731-6362 or contact us. [Call (877) 731-6362](tel:+18777316362)[Contact Us](https://amhnationwide.com/contact-us/) --- **Need a drug, alcohol, HIV or STD test?** AMH Nationwide is a national lab testing agency operating since 2004, with more than 20,000 collection sites across the United States. Hair, urine, fingernail and blood testing, panels from 5 through 19, for individuals and employers. - Call: (877) 731-6377 - Find a collection site: https://amhnationwide.com/locations/ - Full page: https://amhnationwide.com/herpes-hsv-test-what-it-screens/