Molecular testing for herpes simplex virus type 1 is used to quickly and accurately diagnose laboratory infections from these viruses.
Herpesviruses (family Herpesviridae) are globally spread, affecting both humans and animals while there are hundreds of different species. Common to all types of herpes viruses is the high level of infection (60-90% of the population are carriers) and their ability to remain latent in the body for long periods.
Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) is the pathogen that causes bladder rash (herpes simplex and genital herpes), encephalitis, and generalized infant infection (neonatal herpes). Herpes simplex viruses have a double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) genome and have been classified into two different types, the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and the herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2).
Initial herpes simplex virus type 1 infection occurs in early childhood and is usually transmitted by contact. The entrance gate is usually the oral mucosa (oral type) and the infection is usually manifested as gingivostomatitis. After an incubation period of about 1 week, fluid-filled blisters develop in the mouth or on the face, which may be accompanied by nausea, fever, or difficulty swallowing. Viruses move along the nerve axis to the central nervous system (CNS), where they continue to be latent in the trigeminal ganglion. As with all herpes viruses, the virus remains in the vector host permanently after the primary infection. After a recurrence, the viruses follow the same upstream path, from the CNS to the periphery, where they cause the known vesicular rash (cold sores). Despite the established immunity to the virus, recurrences can occur repeatedly, because the viruses are constantly inside the nerve cells and do not enter the intercellular space, thus staying away from the immune system's defense mechanisms. Possible complications of HSV-1 infection include keratoconjunctivitis and a particularly lethal form of encephalitis.
Important Note
Laboratory test results are the most important parameter for the diagnosis and monitoring of all pathological conditions. 70%-80% of diagnostic decisions are based on laboratory tests. The correct interpretation of laboratory results allows a doctor to distinguish "healthy" from "diseased".
Laboratory test results should not be interpreted from the numerical result of a single analysis. Test results should be interpreted in relation to each individual case and family history, clinical findings, and the results of other laboratory tests and information. Your personal physician should explain the importance of your test results.
At Diagnostiki Athinon we answer any questions you may have about the test you perform in our laboratory and we contact your doctor to get the best possible medical care.
