Herpes simplex virus

Department

Microbiology - Virology

Delphic Registration Code

DHSV (Tissue, BAL, aspirate); CNSP (CSF); HERP (Swabs)

Constituent Tests

• Herpes Virus Group DNA

Synonyms

HSV

Turnaround Time

75 hours

Test Code

2320

Specimen Type

• Plasma
• CSF
• Tissue
• Sputum
• Bronchial Washing
• Aspirate
• Fluid

Specimen Requirements

Tube/Container Type:

Preferred

• Pottle

Acceptable

• EDTA (Lavender Cap)

Preferred Sample Volume (ml)

2

Minimum Sample Volume (ml)

0.5

Pre-testing Requirements

Please consult laboratory if urgent.

Additional Specimen Information

Tissues
Place small samples into virus transport medium to prevent drying. Place bigger specimens into a sterile container.

Blood
If neonatal disseminated HSV is suspected an EDTA blood sample (lavender top) should be submitted after discussion with a CHL Microbiologist.

CSF
Refer to CSF CNS infectious screen for full details https://www.chl.co.nz/test/csf-cns-pcr-infectious-screen/

Aliquot Instructions

Transport to Lab

Chilled (2 - 8 degrees Celsius)

Test Method

Detection and subtyping of HSV DNA. Nucleic acid extraction, PCR amplification and detection.

Contact Canterbury Health Laboratories on +64 3 364 0484 or email LabInfo@cdhb.health.nz

Additional Costing Information

If more than one PCR detection is performed there is an additional charge. e.g HSV and VZ

Diagnostic testing for Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is very helpful when a clinical diagnosis is uncertain (especially in immunocompromised individuals), where atypical lesions are present or when antiviral therapy is contemplated.
These assay can be used for the detection and subtyping of HSV nucleic acid from all samples and sites excluding CSF. For CSF testing refer to Herpes simplex virus - CSF.

Resources

• Swab Guide

Contact Information

Enquiry Form