What is the Human Herpesvirus 8 (IgG) test?

The Human Herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8) IgG test is a blood test that detects IgG antibodies produced in response to infection with HHV-8, also known as Kaposi’s sarcoma–associated herpesvirus (KSHV).

HHV-8 is a member of the herpesvirus family and establishes lifelong latent infection after exposure. IgG antibodies indicate previous or established infection, rather than recent exposure.

This test is primarily used in infectious disease, oncology, and immunology settings, particularly when assessing risk or investigating conditions associated with HHV-8.

Why do I need an HHV-8 IgG test?

Most people infected with HHV-8 remain asymptomatic. However, the virus is associated with certain cancers and inflammatory conditions, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems.

You may need an HHV-8 IgG test if you:

• Are being investigated for Kaposi’s sarcoma
• Have unexplained vascular skin lesions
• Are immunocompromised (e.g. HIV infection, transplant recipients)
• Have suspected HHV-8–associated conditions
• Are undergoing specialist infectious disease or oncology assessment
• Require epidemiological or risk screening

Conditions associated with HHV-8 include:

• Kaposi’s sarcoma
• Primary effusion lymphoma
• Multicentric Castleman disease

Benefits of the HHV-8 IgG test

• Identifies past HHV-8 infection
  Confirms exposure to the virus.
• Supports Kaposi’s sarcoma assessment
  Relevant in suspected or confirmed cases.
• Useful in immunocompromised patients
  Helps assess viral risk profile.
• Clinically recognised viral marker
  Used in specialist diagnostics.
• Simple blood test
  No invasive procedures required.
• Supports oncology investigations
  Provides context in virus-associated cancers.
• Useful for long-term infection history
  IgG remains detectable over time.
• Guides further specialist testing
  Indicates need for additional evaluation.

Step by step – how the test works

You can access HHV-8 IgG testing UK-wide through two options:

1. Clinic appointment
   Attend your nearest UK clinic where a healthcare professional will take your blood sample.
2. At-home or hotel visit (£60 extra)
   A qualified phlebotomist comes to your home or hotel for blood collection.

Your sample is analysed in an accredited UK laboratory, and results are delivered securely.

Your results explained

Negative HHV-8 IgG

No evidence of previous HHV-8 infection.

Typical UK interpretation:

• HHV-8 IgG: Negative

Positive HHV-8 IgG

Indicates past or established infection with HHV-8.

Typical UK interpretation:

• HHV-8 IgG: Positive

Clinical interpretation required

A positive result does not mean active disease. Clinical correlation is essential.