Table of Contents
- Overview
- Results
- Risks
- Prevention
- Images
Herpes viral culture of a lesion is a laboratory test to check if a skin sample is infected with the herpes simplex virus.
See also:
Genital herpes -
Herpes labialis (cold sores) Serum herpes simplex antibodies
Alternative Names
Culture - herpes simplex virus; Herpes simplex virus culture
How the test is performed
A sample from a
At the laboratory, the sample is placed in a special dish and watched for the growth of the herpes simplex virus, or substances related to the virus. Special tests may also be done to determine whether it is herpex simplex virus type 1 or 2.
Results are available within 16 hours to 7 days (usually 2-4 days), depending on the laboratory method used.
How to prepare for the test
The sample must be collected during the worst part of an outbreak. This is considered the acute phase of infection.
How the test will feel
When the sample is collected, you may feel an uncomfortable scraping or sticky sensation. Sometimes a sample from the throat or eyes is needed. This involves rubbing a sterile swab against the eye or in the throat.
Why the test is performed
The test is done to confirm herpes simplex infection. The diagnosis is often made by physical examination (the health care provider looking at the sores), and the cultures and other tests are used to confirm that diagnosis.
Images
Review Date: 09/13/2009
Reviewed By: Susan Storck, MD, FACOG, Chief, Eastside Department of Obstetrics
and Gynecology, Group Health Cooperative of Puget Sound, Redmond,
WA; Clinical Teaching Faculty, Department of Obstetrics and
Gynecology, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also
reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)
