HSV 1 and 2 PCR (herpes simplex virus)
Quick answer: This test looks for the genetic material of herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2 in a sample. On CSF it is the main test for herpes infection of the brain (encephalitis); on blood it may be used in newborns or people with severe infection.
- SampleFluid (CSF) or blood
- TakesA few minutes for blood; about 20 to 30 minutes for a lumbar puncture
- Before the testCSF is collected by a doctor through a lumbar puncture; no special preparation is usually needed for a blood sample.
- In fertility careHerpes infection near delivery can pass to the baby, so doctors take special care in pregnant women with genital herpes.
How the test is done
- 1The sample depends on the illness, such as spinal fluid, blood or a swab
- 2For spinal fluid, a lumbar puncture is done
- 3The lab extracts genetic material from the sample
- 4A PCR test looks for HSV-1 and HSV-2 DNA
What your results can mean
Reading your report
A positive result shows active virus; your doctor will explain treatment and what it means.
If the result is outside the usual range
A positive result can point to active herpes infection, such as herpes encephalitis when found in spinal fluid, or herpes in a newborn. A negative result makes active infection less likely, but very early testing can miss it.
Who usually has this test
People with a suspected brain infection, newborns at risk of herpes, and sometimes people with severe or unusual sores.
Risks and aftercare
Aftercare depends on the sample; a lumbar puncture can cause a headache.
Names and options
Also called: herpes PCR, HSV DNA PCR, HSV 1 2 PCR
Options
- Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)
- Serum
Listed by the hospital as
- HSV 1 & 2 REAL TIME PCR, CSF
- HSV 1 & 2 REAL TIME PCR, SERUM
Questions about this test
Why is HSV PCR done on spinal fluid?
Herpes can rarely infect the brain, which needs urgent treatment. PCR on spinal fluid is the standard way to look for it.
Can herpes pass to a baby at birth?
Yes, especially if the mother has a first infection near delivery. Doctors may advise antiviral medicine or a caesarean in some cases.
Does the result show whether it is HSV-1 or HSV-2?
Many PCR tests tell the two types apart. This can help guide follow-up.
Related tests
Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
Get directions ↗IVF Pulse fertility care at Tamara Hospital →
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This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.