HSV 1 & 2 PCR (Lesions only)

Herpes Smplex PCR for cutaneous and mucocutaneous lesions skin (including genital, oral and ocular).
Performed in Microbiology laboratory (x5785)

HSVNA

Herpes Simplex PCR

Herpes simplex Virus types 1 & 2 by PCR with differentiation of types 1 & 2

Swab of cutaneous or mucocutaneous lesion in viral transport media (including genital, oral, and ocular).
Obtain collection materials, Viral transport media, from Microbiology lab x5785

Cervix: Remove ectocervical mucus with a swab and discard swab. incert swab form viral transport kit at lest 1cm into cervical cana and rotate swab for 10 seconds. Place into Viral Transport Media. Urethra: Express and discard any exudate. Insert flexible fine -shafted swab 2-3 com into urethra, gently rotate swab two to three times and withdraw. Place into Viral Transport Media. Rectal: Carefully insert swab beyond anal sphincter and gently rotate to sample anal crypts. Place into Viral Transport Media. Fresh Vesicle: Cleanse area with sterile saline. Carefully open vesicle with a needle or scalpel blade. With swab, collect fluid and cellular material by vigorously sampling base of lesion . Place into Viral Transport Media.

Culture swab in viral transport media (obtained from microbiology lab x 67875)

Room temperature if sent to lab immediately
if transport > 15 minutes please send on ice

Non -lesion or  non -vesicle sources. CSF, respiratory specimens 
This test is not approved for CSF. please refer to HSVPCR (sen to to Quest Diagnostics).
Other specimen types not approved for this method may be tested by HSV culture (CXHSV)
If sites are to be screened for HSV and Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV), culture will be performed for VZV only if HSV PCR is negative. Indicate on requisition if both viruses may be suspected.  

Test performed daily, Sunday through Saturday

Please note specific body site and viruses to rule out on requisition. Viral culture will not be reflexed if HSV PCR is Negative.

Not detected