Shingles Tests
Although the classic pain and rash on a large band of the body are usually enough for doctors to diagnose shingles, in other cases a doctor may choose to perform a test to determine whether or not an individual is suffering from shingles. There are several tests a doctor can choose from to confirm whether or not their suspicions are true.
An older technique that is less common due to more advanced techniques is a Tzanck smear. A Tzanck smear is performed by opening one of the many blisters in the rash and taking a sample of the fluid within it. The fluid is put under a microscope and examined for the normal viral changes in cells. As previously stated, this is an older technique that is becoming less and less common as medical technology progresses. Because of its efficiency, doctors tend to choose a DFA test when diagnosing a case of shingles. The results of a DFA test (direct fluorescent antibody) are normally available within a matter of hours.
The final test that doctors may choose to perform is a skin biopsy. A skin biopsy is performed by taking a piece of the skin rash and looking at it under a microscope. This same skin can also be checked for viral DNA using a polymerase chain reaction test.
Regardless of whether or not your doctor performs a shingles test, it is important to seek their guidance in planning out your course of treatment during a case of shingles. |
