| Definition: |
The Tzanck test is a method of testing sores for the herpes simplex virus (which causes cold sores, fever blister, or genital sores), or varicella-zoster virus (which causes chickenpox and "shingles").
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| Alternative Names: |
Herpes skin test; Chicken pox skin test
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| How the test is performed: |
The sore is scraped and the scraping is put on a slide and stained. The health care provider then examines it under a microscope.
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| How to prepare for the test: |
Infants and children:
The preparation you can provide for this test depends on your child's age, previous experiences, and level of trust. For general information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics:
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| How the test will feel: |
When the sore is scraped or rubbed, there may be mild discomfort.
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| Why the test is performed: |
The test may help diagnose or confirm an infection with 1 of these 2 viruses. This test can not distinguish between these two viruses.
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| Normal Values: |
No presence of herpes-infected cells in the scraping is normal.
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| What abnormal results mean: |
The results are immediately available. If herpes-infected cells are detected, the patient has been infected with one or the other of the following:
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| What the risks are: |
There are no risks with this test.
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| Special considerations: |
There is a high rate of false-negative results even when the virus is present.
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