Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) Culture Without Typing
Also known as: Nontyping Culture, Viral Culture, Herpes Simplex
Use
The Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) Culture Without Typing test is used for the detection of active HSV infections. It is particularly useful in identifying the presence of the virus in various specimen types, such as vesicular fluid, ulcerated lesions, and other bodily fluids. This test helps clinicians in diagnosing infections caused by HSV1 and HSV2, aiding in the management and treatment of diseases like herpes simplex encephalitis and genital herpes.
Special Instructions
Submit one specimen per test requested. Specify the exact specimen source/origin (e.g., genital lesion). Indicate a specific test number on the request form. Check expiration date of transport; do not use expired devices.
Limitations
Infectious HSV is rarely present in CSF during encephalitis, resulting in a poor recovery by culture (98% of HSV DNA in CSF. The HSV culture's sensitivity may also be affected by the timing of specimen collection (best collected within the first three days of lesion appearance but no more than seven days) and specimen handling practices.
Methodology
Cell-based / Cytometry
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 5859-4
- 5859-4
Result Turnaround Time
2-5 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Body Fluid
Volume
1 mL fluid
Minimum Volume
Not provided
Container
Viral, Chlamydia, or Mycoplasma culture transport
Collection Instructions
Specimen is best collected within the first three days following the appearance of a lesion but no more than seven days. After collection, remove the cap from the transport medium tube, and insert the swab aseptically into the transport tube and break the swab shaft. Replace the cap so that the swab will not interfere with closure and allow the tube to leak. Label the tube with patient identification and transport specimen to the laboratory at 4°C.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerate.
Causes for Rejection
Bacterial swab specimen; specimen received in grossly leaking transport container; dry specimen; specimen submitted in fixative or additive; specimen received in expired transport media or incorrect transport devices; inappropriate specimen transport conditions; specimen received after prolonged delay in transport (usually more than 72 hours); specimen stored or transported at room temperature; wooden shaft swab in transport device; calcium alginate swab; unlabeled specimen or name discrepancy between specimen and request label