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HERPES SIMPLEX VIRUS (HSV) PCR (QUALITATIVE)

Synonym(s):

​HSV PCR

Lab Section Category

Molecular Diagnostic - Microbiology
View write-up

Indications

​For detection and typing of herpes simplex virus (HSV) in patients suspected of having HSV encephalitis, uveitis and HSV infections in other sites.

Specimen Required

​(a) CSF: At least 0.5 mL of undiluted sample in a sterile and leak-proof screw-capped container without any additives.

(b) Swab for vesicles: Use Dacron-tipped swabs. Sample base of lesions vigorously and send dry in swab sheath.

(c) Blood: 1-3 mL of EDTA whole blood 

Please note that HSV PCR on blood has low yield in most instances of HSV infections (except in disseminated disease or HSV hepatitis).
Consider alternatives such as HSV PCR on direct swabs for active lesions, or HSV serology for latent infection.

Storage and Transport

​Refrigerate sample until transfer to laboratory. Do not freeze. Send sample at 2 - 8°C (with an ice-pack). Sample must reach the laboratory within 24 hours after collection.

Method

​In-house real-time multiplex Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)

Test Results

​Detected, Not Detected or Inconclusive

Turnaround Time

​1 - 4 days; next working day for CSF samples

Day(s) Test Set up

​Mondays and Thursdays (except Public Holidays)

Change History Notes

  • 31 Dec 2013 3:15 AM

    Indications: Indications for testing has been last updated on 3.1.14.

    Specimen: Specimen Required has been last updated on 3.1.14.

    Method: Method has been last updated on 3.1.14.

    Turnaround Time: Turnaround Time has been last updated on 3.1.14.

  • 19 May 2014 8:25 AM

    Specimen Required: Specimen Required has been last updated on 19/05/14.

  • 16 Jan 2017 3:25 AM

    Day(s) Test Setup: Last updated on 16/01/2017.

  • 05 Feb 2021 8:00 AM

    Day(s) Test Set-Up has been last updated on 05/02/21.

  • 15 Feb 2023 8:10 AM

    Day(s) Test Set-Up is updated.

  • 19 Mar 2025 5:00 AM

    Specimen Required updated

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Last updated on 19 Mar 2025