3062. PCR. Herpes virus type 1/2 (CSF, qualitative determination)

A test to detect the causative agent of herpes infection type 1 and / or 2 is carried out using the polymerase chain reaction method to determine the genetic material of the virus in the cerebrospinal fluid.

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) types 1 and 2 can affect not only the skin and mucous membranes but also the central nervous system. HSV-1 is most often associated with herpes encephalitis, while HSV-2 is associated with herpes meningitis, especially in children, newborns, and immunocompromised patients.

PCR (polymerase chain reaction) is the gold standard for detecting HSV in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). This method is aimed at rapid and accurate detection of viral DNA, which is especially important in life-threatening conditions when every hour counts.

This test is used to:

• confirm herpes lesions of the brain or its membranes;
• differentiate viral from bacterial encephalitis;
• promote early initiation of antiviral therapy, which significantly impacts the prognosis.

• For acute encephalitis or meningitis of unknown etiology.
• For patients with fever, impaired consciousness, seizures, or general weakness.
• For newborns or infants – if neonatal herpes is suspected.
• For immunosuppressed individuals (HIV, after chemotherapy or organ transplant).
• For suspected recurrent herpes meningitis (Mollaret syndrome).
• For rapid verification of the pathogen at the beginning of specific treatment.

• Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)

The sampling should be done by your doctor. Deliver collected biomaterial to the laboratory for testing.