Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 Pcr Qualitative

6,000.00

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The HSV-1 PCR Qualitative test is a molecular diagnostic test that detects the presence or absence of Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 DNA in a clinical sample. It uses Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) technology, which amplifies even very small amounts of viral DNA to determine if HSV-1 is actively present in the body.
This test is qualitative, meaning it gives a yes or no result — it does not measure the amount of virus (viral load), but simply confirms whether the virus is detected or not detected.
Common sample types include:

• Swabs from skin or mucosal lesions (mouth, lips, eyes, genitals)
• Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) if HSV encephalitis is suspected
• Blood or other body fluids, depending on clinical presentation

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    Description

    Why It’s Done:

    The HSV-1 PCR Qualitative test is ordered to:
    • Diagnose an active HSV-1 infection, especially when sores or lesions are present.
    • Confirm HSV-1 as the cause of oral lesions, herpes keratitis (eye infection), or herpes encephalitis (brain infection).
    • Detect the virus in newborns or immunocompromised individuals.
    • Differentiate HSV-1 from HSV-2 in cases of genital infections.
    • Support diagnosis when antibody tests (IgG/IgM) are inconclusive or not useful (e.g., early in the infection).
    This test is more accurate during active outbreaks when the virus is shedding.

    Preparation:

    • No special preparation is needed from the patient.
    • A sample collection will be done depending on the affected area:
    o Lesion swab: the most common method
    o CSF or blood draw: if systemic or neurological symptoms are present
    • Inform your doctor if you are currently using antiviral medications, as this may affect viral detection.