Definition of Herpes viral culture of lesion:

Herpes viral culture of a lesion is a laboratory test to check if a skin sample is infected with the herpes simplex virus.

How the test is performed:

A sample from a skin lesion (often a genital sore) or blister is needed. The health care provider will collect the sample when you are having an acute outbreak and place it in a laboratory container. The sample must include cells, not just fluid from the blister, since the virus is in the skin cells of the blister or ulcer.

At the laboratory, the sample is placed in a special dish and watched for the growth of the herpes simplex virus, or substances related to the virus. Special tests may also be done to determine whether it is herpex simplex virus type 1 or 2.

Results are available within 16 hours to 7 days, depending on the laboratory method used.

How to prepare for the test:

The sample must be collected during the worst part of an outbreak. This is considered the acute phase of infection.

How the test will feel:

When the sample is collected, you may feel a scraping or sticky sensation. Sometimes a sample from the throat or eyes is needed. This involves rubbing a sterile swab against eyes or over the throat area.

Why the test is performed:

The test is performed to confirm herpes simplex infection. However, the diagnosis is often made by physical examination, rather than diagnostic testing.