HSV-1 and HSV-2 are herpes viruses with DNA as their genetic material. HSV 1&2 DNA Detection is a test used to detect the presence of Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) DNA in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). This test can help diagnose herpes simplex encephalitis (HSE), a serious infection of the brain caused by HSV. It can also differentiate between HSV-1 and HSV-2, the two types of HSV. Identifying the specific virus type is important for proper treatment.