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Test for Shingles

In most patients who present with shingles, the symptoms alone are enough for a diagnostician to conclude that shingles is present. However, in some cases testing may be necessary, and this can be carried out in three different ways.

  1. General Diagnosis

    • The two primary symptoms of shingles are severe pain and a rash with blisters following the line of the nerve in which the virus that causes the condition (VZV) has become reactivated, generally on the buttocks or trunk of the body. These symptoms are diagnostic for shingles, meaning that no further testing is necessary.

    Complications in Diagnosis

    • Some people experience shingles pain but no rash or only a very slight rash. In a few cases, another condition such as oral or genital herpes may be responsible for the symptoms. In these cases, further testing is necessary.

    Viral Culture

    • Fluid taken from a blister is cultured in a laboratory to check for the presence of VZV. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, it is at times difficult to use this as an accurate diagnostic tool.

    Immunofluorescence

    • Ultraviolet rays can be used to detect antibodies to VZV in a sample taken from a blister. The UMMC reports that this test is more accurate and faster than a viral culture.

    PCR

    • Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing can also be used to diagnose shingles; this technique involves amplifying the genetic material of the virus so that it can be detected. The UMMC reports that this technique is used when a diagnosis has been difficult.

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