Herpes Simplex Virus Culture

Also known as: Herpes Simplex Virus Culture, Rapid Method

Clinical Use

Use

This test is used for the detection of Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) via culture methods from lesion or mucosal specimens; it is applicable to patients presenting with suspected HSV infection, particularly involving vesicular or ulcerated lesions. Culture may identify active viral replication and can support diagnosis when PCR/NAAT is unavailable or contraindicated. Although culture is less sensitive and slower compared to molecular methods, it remains a viable diagnostic option for certain specimen types, especially when distinguishing active infection is necessary.

Special Instructions

Not provided.

Limitations

Viral culture is generally less sensitive compared to molecular NAAT methods and may fail to detect HSV in older or healing lesions. The turnaround time is longer (typically 3–4 days). Culture may not differentiate HSV‑1 vs. HSV‑2 without reflex typing. Specimen types (e.g., CSF, formalin-fixed tissue) may be unacceptable, and proper collection and transport are critical to avoid false negatives.

Test Details

Methodology

Culture-based

Biomarkers

Targets not provided.

Result Turnaround Time

3-4 days

Specimen

Other

Volume

Not provided

Minimum Volume

Not provided

Container

Viral Media or Viral Collection medium

Collection Instructions

Acceptable specimens include nasal/nasopharyngeal, endocervical, eye, lesion (vesicle) aspirate, urethral, vaginal, rectal mucosa (without feces), throat swab, bronchial lavage/wash, fresh (unfixed) tissue collected in viral culture medium (VCM) or sterile screw-cap container.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerate

Causes for Rejection

CSF; sputum; raw (unpreserved) stool; dry swabs; molecular or bacterial transport systems; tissue or biopsies in formalin or other fixatives; calcium alginate swabs; wooden shaft swabs; non gel‑based bacterial transports