Herpes virus infections

(Aotea News, March 2009)

The diagnosis of Herpes virus infections (oral and genital Herpes simplex, Chicken pox and shingles) is primarily clinical.

Herpes simplex virus

Where laboratory confirmation of Herpes simplex infections is required, we will soon be providing a new PCR based method with superior sensitivity and specificity and which further provides virus typing (HSV I / HSV II). This service will be available from 1 May 2009.

In preparation for this change we will be supplying new “Flocked” swabs for sampling. Please use these swabs for all Herpes testing (ie for both Herpes simplex and Varicella zoster). Due to the exquisite sensitivity of PCR testing, please ensure that you specifically sample lesions, rather than general anatomic sites eg High vaginal swabs will not generate clinically useful results.

Turnaround time is expected to be three working days from receipt of sample with testing of batches being performed routinely on Tuesdays and Thursdays. For urgent requests, please contact the Clinical Microbiologist.

Varicella zoster virus

Serology is of limited use for the diagnosis of Varicella zoster infections and is best used when attempting to identify susceptible individuals following exposure to a confirmed case. PCR methods for assisting diagnosis are now the “gold standard” but should only be requested when the clinical presentation is atypical or complicated.

Please feel welcome to contact us for further information:

Dr Mark Jones
Clinical Microbiologist
(04) 381 594

Dr Collette Bromhead
Molecular Biologist
(04) 381 5923