Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) Typing
Also known as: V HSVT
Use
The Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) Typing test is designed to differentiate between HSV types 1 and 2 in cultured virus isolates. This differentiation is clinically significant as the two types can have different clinical outcomes and implications for treatment. HSV-1 is commonly associated with oral infections, while HSV-2 is more often associated with genital infections. Proper typing aids in patient counseling, management, and treatment decisions.
Special Instructions
Typing cannot be requested directly on a specimen. The test requires an isolate from a cell culture containing infected cells, which should be harvested from actively growing cell cultures before being prepared for the test. Ensure specimens are properly packaged in individual sealed bags.
Limitations
The test is limited to the typing of herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2 and cannot be used to directly test patient specimens. It is also dependent on the growth and isolation of the virus in culture. The inability to cultivate HSV can result in unresolvable samples. Additionally, unexpected results can occur depending on variations in virus strains and culture conditions.
New York Approved
Methodology
Cell-based / Cytometry
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 5857-8
Result Turnaround Time
1-5 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Cultured Cells
Volume
Not provided
Minimum Volume
Not provided
Container
Two-well slide or sterile leak-proof container
Collection Instructions
Harvest positive cells (3-4+ positivity) from actively growing cell culture and acetone fix infected cells to a two-well slide or transfer with culture media.
Patient Preparation
Typing may not be requested directly on a specimen.
Causes for Rejection
Unspecified
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 72 hours |
| Refrigerated | 72 hours |
| Frozen | 1 month |