HSV 1 and 2 DNA Detection Qualitative PCR Test: Booking, Price, and Results
About HSV 1 and 2 DNA Detection Qualitative PCR Test
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | HSV DNA PCR, HSV-1 and HSV-2 PCR, Herpes Simplex Virus DNA Detection, HSV 1 and 2 DNA Detection by RT-PCR, HSV NAAT |
| Sample Type | Swab from lesion (oral, genital, dermal, or vesicle), cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), or blood (EDTA), depending on the site of suspected infection |
| Fasting Required | No fasting required |
| Report Time | 24 to 72 hours |
| Recommended For | Adults and children of any age with symptoms suggestive of HSV infection; not recommended for asymptomatic screening |
| Price | Starting at ₹1,600 |
What is a HSV 1 and 2 DNA Detection Qualitative PCR Test?
The HSV DNA PCR test detects the genetic material of herpes simplex virus type 1 and type 2 in a patient sample. Also known as the Herpes Simplex Virus PCR test, it is ordered when a doctor suspects an active HSV infection based on symptoms. Depending on the suspected site of infection, the sample may be a swab from a lesion, a blood draw, or cerebrospinal fluid.
What Does a HSV 1 and 2 DNA Detection Qualitative PCR Test Measure?
The HSV 1 and 2 PCR test analyses the sample for the DNA of two distinct virus types. The table below summarises what each parameter looks for.
| Parameter | What It Detects |
|---|---|
| HSV-1 DNA | Genetic material from herpes simplex virus type 1, most commonly linked to oral herpes (cold sores) but also capable of causing genital infections |
| HSV-2 DNA | Genetic material from herpes simplex virus type 2, the main cause of genital herpes and primarily spread through sexual contact |
The test confirms whether an active infection is present and identifies which virus type is responsible. Results are reported as either "Detected" or "Not Detected" for each type.
Why is a HSV 1 and 2 DNA Detection Qualitative PCR Test Done?
A doctor may request this test when a patient presents with signs that could indicate an HSV infection. The sections below explain when this test is typically used.
Common Symptoms That May Require This Test
- Painful blisters or ulcers around the mouth or lips
- Genital or anal blisters, sores, or ulcers
- Fever with unexplained body aches
- Swollen lymph nodes (glands) in the neck or groin
- Severe headache with neck stiffness, which may suggest CNS involvement
- Eye redness or inflammation (keratitis)
- Confusion or altered mental state in cases of suspected brain involvement
Conditions This Test Can Help Detect
The HSV DNA detection test can help identify a range of conditions caused by herpes simplex virus infection. These include:
- Oral herpes (gingivostomatitis: mouth sores and gum inflammation)
- Genital herpes and other genital tract infections
- HSV keratitis (inflammation of the eye)
- Vesicular skin eruptions (blister-like rashes on the skin)
- Aseptic meningitis (inflammation of membranes around the brain and spinal cord), more commonly linked to HSV-2
- Encephalitis (brain inflammation), more commonly linked to HSV-1
- Neonatal herpes (HSV infection in newborns)
- Disseminated HSV infection in immunocompromised patients
How to Prepare and What to Expect
No special preparation is needed for this test. The steps below walk you through what to expect on the day of collection.
Do You Need to Fast?
No. Fasting is not required before a HSV 1 and 2 PCR test. You can eat and drink normally before your appointment.
Practical Tips Before Your Test
- No dietary restrictions apply, so eat and drink as normal
- Inform your doctor or the collection staff about any antiviral medications you are currently taking, as these can reduce viral shedding and affect results
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing if a genital or skin swab is expected
- Avoid applying creams, ointments, or antiseptics to the affected area before the swab is taken
- Try to schedule the test while lesions or symptoms are still active, as this improves the chance of an accurate result
Step-by-Step Procedure
- You arrive at the collection centre or receive a home visit from a trained phlebotomist or technician.
- For a swab: the technician gently cleans the affected area and collects fluid or cells from the lesion using a sterile swab.
- The swab is placed in a viral transport medium to preserve the sample during transit to the laboratory.
- For a blood sample: a small amount of blood is drawn from a vein in your arm and collected in a special tube.
- For a cerebrospinal fluid sample: a specialist performs a lumbar puncture (spinal tap) under sterile conditions at a clinical facility.
- The sample is dispatched to the NABL-accredited Lupin Diagnostics laboratory, where viral DNA is extracted and analysed using PCR technology.
Factors That Can Affect Accuracy
- Taking antiviral medication before the test, which may reduce viral shedding and cause a false-negative result
- Collecting the sample very early in the illness, before the virus is detectable
- Poor sample collection technique or delays in transport
- Improper storage of the sample before it reaches the laboratory
- Very low levels of virus in the sample, below the sensitivity threshold of the assay
- Rare genetic variations in the virus that the assay primers may not detect
Understanding Your HSV 1 and 2 DNA Detection Qualitative PCR Test Results
Your results will indicate whether HSV-1 or HSV-2 DNA was detected in your sample. Always review your report with your doctor, who will interpret it alongside your symptoms and medical history.
| Parameter | Normal Result | Detected Interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| HSV-1 DNA | Not Detected | Active HSV-1 infection present at the tested site |
| HSV-2 DNA | Not Detected | Active HSV-2 infection present at the tested site |
A "Not Detected" result means the virus was not found in your sample. However, a negative result does not entirely rule out infection, particularly if the test was done very early in the illness or during antiviral therapy. A "Detected" result confirms active infection with the identified virus type.
These ranges are general guidelines. Your doctor will interpret your results based on your age, health history, and other factors. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalised medical advice.
Results During Special Conditions
- People with weakened immune systems, including those living with HIV or those who have had organ transplants, may experience more frequent or severe HSV episodes. The ability of the body to keep the virus dormant is reduced when immunity is low, which can lead to more active shedding. Note that the performance of this test has not been fully established for immunocompromised individuals, so your doctor may need to consider additional clinical information when interpreting your results.
- Antiviral therapy taken before sample collection can suppress viral shedding, which may result in a false-negative reading. Inform your doctor if you have already started treatment.
How to Maintain Healthy Levels
The following general hygiene and lifestyle practices can help reduce the risk of HSV transmission:
- Avoid direct skin contact with active herpes lesions on yourself or others
- Do not share personal items such as towels, razors, or drinking utensils
- Practise safe sexual behaviours and use appropriate barrier protection consistently
Lupin Diagnostics HSV 1 and 2 DNA Detection Qualitative PCR Test Price and Home Collection
The HSV PCR test price at Lupin Diagnostics starts at approximately ₹1,600, with home sample collection available across cities. The table below shows indicative prices by location.
| City | Approximate Price (₹) |
|---|---|
| Delhi/NCR | ₹1,600 to ₹2,500 |
| Mumbai | ₹3,700 |
| Bangalore | ₹3,700 |
| Chennai | ₹3,700 |
| Hyderabad | ₹3,700 |
| Kolkata | ₹3,700 |
Prices are indicative and may vary by location. Please confirm the current price at the time of booking.
Home Collection
Lupin Diagnostics offers home collection for the HSV 1 and 2 PCR test across multiple cities, making it convenient to get tested without visiting a centre. All samples are processed in NABL-accredited laboratories by experienced technologists. Your digital report is shared via email or WhatsApp once ready.
How to Book
- Select the test on the Lupin Diagnostics website.
- Choose your city and preferred time slot.
- Opt for home sample collection by a certified phlebotomist, or visit your nearest Lupin Diagnostics centre.
- Receive your report via email or WhatsApp within the stipulated turnaround time.
Frequently Asked Questions
HSV-1 is most commonly associated with oral infections such as cold sores, though it can also cause genital infections. HSV-2 primarily causes genital herpes and is almost exclusively found in adults. The HSV 1 and 2 DNA detection test identifies which type is responsible for your current infection, which helps guide your doctor's decisions about management.
Yes. The Herpes Simplex Virus PCR test detects viral DNA directly and is faster and more sensitive than traditional viral culture methods. PCR significantly improves detection rates in both early and late presentations of herpes infection, making it the preferred method for confirming an active HSV infection.
This test is not recommended for screening people who have no symptoms. The HSV DNA PCR test is most useful when active lesions or symptoms are present, as it detects viral DNA shed during active infection. Your doctor will advise you on whether testing is appropriate in your situation.
Testing is most effective when symptoms or lesions are present. Getting tested very early in the course of illness, before the virus is actively shedding, may produce a negative result even if infection is present. If encephalitis is suspected and the first result is negative, your doctor may recommend repeating the test 3 to 7 days later.
No special preparation is needed. You can eat, drink, and go about your normal routine before the test. The one important step is to let your doctor or the collection staff know if you are already taking any antiviral medication, as this can affect the accuracy of your result.
A positive result confirms that HSV DNA was found in your sample, indicating an active infection. Your doctor will use this information to understand your condition and plan appropriate next steps. While there is no cure for herpes, antiviral medications can help manage symptoms and reduce their severity.
Although both virus types can cause similar symptoms, they differ in terms of where they tend to infect, how often they reactivate, their response to antiviral therapy, and the risk of complications such as encephalitis or meningitis. Identifying the specific type through an HSV 1 PCR test or HSV 2 PCR test helps your doctor give you a more accurate picture of your condition and prognosis.
HSV 1 and 2 DNA Detection Qualitative PCR Test: Booking, Price, and Results
