HERPES SIMPLEX VIRUS HSV PCR QUALITATIVE

Lab Section Category	Molecular Diagnostic - Microbiology View write-up
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.
Indications	For detection and typing of herpes simplex virus (HSV) in patients suspected of having HSV encephalitis, uveitis and HSV infections in other sites.
Storage/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, Wednesdays and Fridays (except Public Holidays)

Change History Notes

15 Feb 2023 04:10 PM

Day(s) Test Set-Up is updated.
05 Feb 2021 04:00 PM

Day(s) Test Set-Up has been last updated on 05/02/21.
16 Jan 2017 11:25 AM

Day(s) Test Setup: Last updated on 16/01/2017.
19 May 2014 04:25 PM

Specimen Required: Specimen Required has been last updated on 19/05/14.
31 Dec 2013 11:15 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.

Last Updated - 24 Jul 2025

HERPES SIMPLEX VIRUS (HSV) PCR (QUALITATIVE)