June 5, 2008
Exams And Tests For Shingles
Shingles can be detected by some tests and examples in hospitals or laboratories. Doctors diagnose such viral attack to confirm the attack of herpes zoster. Though the tests are always not necessary they give a confirmation to doctors about the condition of the patient and they become sure of shingles. Tests like A Tzanck smear where the fluid from a blister is taken in a slide and examined under microscope to find the viral changes. Another series of tests which may be performed is called Viral Cultures Tests or shingles Special Antibody Tests. Tests such as Direct Fluorescent Antibody (DFA) reveal the virus and also distinguish the two virus responsible for it- VZV and HSV. Skin biopsy is also another method to test shingles where a minute skin portion from the rash area is examined under the microscope.
