Herpes simplex virus 2 PCR (Rash)

Test information: Used primarily for the investigation of genital sores/ulcers, vesicular rashes, stomatitis/oral ulceration, corneal ulceration, shingles and chickenpox.

Part of a syndromic test selection. Assay also includes targets for Herpes simplex virus 21, Varicella zoster virus, Enterovirus and Human Adenovirus.

Availability: Routine hours: 08:00 to 17:15

Specimen Type(s)

• Anal Swab;
• Eye swab;
• Genital Swab;
• Mouth Swab;
• Ocular Fluid;
• Skin Swab;
• Throat swab;
• Vesicle Fluid;
• Vesicle Swabs;
• Vitreous Fluid;

Other Acceptable Specimen Type(s)

N/A

Specimen Container - Adult

• Copan Universal Transport Medium (UTM-RT) Red;
• Plain Universal;
• Sigma-Virocult with Sigma-Swab Green;

Specimen Container - Paediatric

• N/A;

Analytes

• Herpes simplex virus 2 (Human herpesvirus 2) DNA;

Part of a test profile?

No

Volume (min) of sample to be sent to laboratory

2mL

Patient Preparation, Sample Handling and Transport

• Specimens should be transported to the laboratory as soon as possible. Outside of normal hours samples should be refrigerated (2 °C to 8 °C).
• Swab from base of lesion or vesicle fluid/crusts. If possible collect fluid from intact vesicle.
• Some interference may occur with this assay if high levels of ethanol are present in clinical specimens.
• Please indicate if hand foot and mouth is suspected.
• Please indicate site of swab.

Maximum add on time

N/A

Units and Reference Ranges / Interpretation

Not detected / Detected

UKAS number

N/A

UKAS accredited test?

Yes

Comments

See:

• Herpes simplex virus 1 PCR.
• Varicella zoster virus PCR.
• Enterovirus PCR.
• Human Adenovirus PCR.

If you have any queries about a test or results interpretation please contact us.