A patient has a unilateral vesicular eruption which is described as burning and stabbing in intensity. To differentiate between herpes simplex and herpes zoster, which test will the provider order?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis is the most accurate test for differentiating between herpes simplex and herpes zoster. PCR can detect and differentiate between the two viruses based on their DNA. Serum immunoglobulins and viral culture may not be able to accurately distinguish between the two viruses, and the Tzanck test can only diagnose herpes infections in general, but not distinguish between different types of herpes viruses.

A Patient Has a Unilateral Vesicular Eruption Which Is Described