• Step 1

    Order
    Your Tests

    step 1 icon
  • Step 2

    Go to
    the Lab

    step 2 icon
  • Step 3

    Get Your
    Results

    step 3 icon
  • Step 1

    Order
    Your Tests

    step 1 icon
  • Step 2

    Go to
    the Lab

    step 2 icon
  • Step 3

    Get Your
    Results

    step 3 icon

Human Herpesvirus (HHV) 6 PCR Qual Test

Qualitative, HHV6

Test Code: 138479
Specimen Type: Blood
Human Herpesvirus (HHV) 6 PCR Qual Test Online

Description:

Human Herpesvirus (HHV) 6 PCR Qual Test

This test looks for Human Herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) by screening for viral DNA in the blood.  HHV-6 is a member of the Herpes family of viruses.  Information on how HHV-6 is spread is limited but research has found that the majority of people are infected when they are very young.  The most common form of transmission is through saliva but it can be transmitted through sexual contact as well.  Once a person is infected, the virus remains in their system for the rest of their life.  The virus will typically remain latent but can reactivate later in life and may be related to a variety of health issues, especially in people whose immune systems are compromised. 

HHV-6 does not usually cause any symptoms but initial infection in children may cause fever, diarrhea or rash.  Adults with a reactivated infection may experience fever or illness similar to mononucleosis (mono).    HHV-6 has been linked to a number of conditions including Multiples Sclerosis, Viral Hepatitis, Epilepsy, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Encephalitis and Lung disease.   

This test looks for HHV-6 viral DNA.  Results are qualitative, meaning they provide a positive or negative result without any numerical value.  Viral DNA will typically be present if a person has ever been exposed to HHV-6.  Results for this test can help determine if a person has contracted the virus at some point in the past but cannot differentiate between an active or latent infection.  For a PCR test with numerical results, please order our Human Herpesvirus (HHV) 6 PCR Quantitative Test.  An HHV-6 IgM Antibody test is more accurate at determining if a person has or has recently had an active infection.

Turnaround for this HHV 6 PCR is typically 7-10 business days.

Where can I find a Human Herpesvirus (HHV) 6 PCR Qual Test near me?

Check our lab finder to locate a collection site in your area.

Note: Result turnaround times are an estimate and are not guaranteed. Our reference lab may need additional time due to confirmation/repeat testing, weather, holidays, or equipment maintenance.

Detection Period:

Viral DNA is typically detectable within a few weeks of infection.

Category:


Herpes 1&2 DNA PCR (Qual) Testing

Qualitative, HHV6

Test Code: 16001
Specimen Type: Blood
Results: Typically 3-5 business days  
Human Herpesvirus (HHV) 6 PCR Qual Test Online

Description:

Herpes Simplex 1&2 DNA PCR (Qual) Testing

How does an HSV PCR Test work?

This test is used to aid in the diagnosis of Herpes Simplex Virus infections.  PCR testing looks for viral genetic material or DNA in a blood sample.  The Herpes 1&2 DNA PCR provides results for both type 1 and type 2 Herpes infections.  Results for this test are qualitative and come back with either a positive or negative result.

How is Herpes Spread?

Herpes is a viral infection spread by skin-to-skin contact, including during sexual activity.  Herpes type 1 is more common and most often associated with oral herpes.  Type 2 is less common and often associated with genital herpes.  However, both forms of the virus can be spread to either area depending on the type of contact, which results in infection.  The most common symptom of Herpes infection is periodic outbreaks of sores around the infected area.  However, it is not unusual for Herpes to display no symptoms for years at a time.  The virus can be spread even if the infected person is not experiencing symptoms, which is known as asymptomatic shedding.  Chronic Herpes infections can cause damage to the nervous system and increase the likelihood of contracting other STDs, including HIV.       

How accurate is an HSV PCR blood test?

The Herpes DNA PCR test is not typically ordered as a screening, as blood PCR results may come back negative even if a person has been exposed to the virus.  PCR testing may be useful in cases where a person is suspected of having disseminated herpes, in which the virus has spread from the oral or genital area to other parts of the body.  HSV PCR may also sometimes be detectable during times when the virus is active and multiplying.  Due to the complex nature of this test, it should only be ordered with the recommendation of a person's doctor.  A Quantitative Herpes PCR test, which provides numerical results, is also available. For routine herpes testing, please order the HSV 1&2 IgG Antibodies Test or the HSV IgM Antibodies test for recent exposure.

Turnaround for this HHV 6 PCR is typically 3-5 business days.

Where can I find a Human Herpesvirus (HHV) 6 PCR Qual Test near me?

Check our lab finder to locate a collection site in your area.

Note: Result turnaround times are an estimate and are not guaranteed. Our reference lab may need additional time due to confirmation/repeat testing, weather, holidays, or equipment maintenance.

Detection Period:

Viral DNA is typically detectable within a few weeks of infection.

Category:


Popular Related Products