Molecular testing for herpes virus type 8 is used for laboratory diagnosis and documentation of infections by this virus.
Herpes virus type 8 or herpesvirus-8 (Human Herpes Virus 8, HHV-8) or otherwise Kaposi's sarcoma-associated Herpesvirus (KSHV) is a member of the family of DNA viruses, Herpesviridae. Herpes virus type 8 (HHV-8) infection can lead to the development of lymphoproliferative diseases or other neoplasms, especially in patients with HIV infection. These neoplasms include a variant of Castleman's disease, Kaposi's sarcoma, and primary effusion lymphoma. Herpes virus type 8 is one of the 7 known viruses that cause tumors in humans (oncogenic viruses).
After infection, HHV-8 enters the lymphocytes where they may remain in a latent state. Healthy individuals can become infected with the virus and remain symptom-free due to the ability of the immune system to control the infection. Infection with HHV-8 can cause major problems in immunosuppressed patients, such as cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, AIDS patients, and transplanted patients.
HHV-8 infection is thought to be lifelong, but a healthy immune system can keep the virus under control. Many people who are infected with the herpes type 8 virus will never experience symptoms. Kaposi's sarcoma can occur when someone infected with the virus develops AIDS, medical treatment, or very rarely due to aging.
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.
