Microscopy

Microscopy is a rapid, sensitive, and inexpensive diagnostic method. The smears are prepared from the lesions, preferably from the base of the vesicle and stained with 1 % aqueous solution of toluidine blue ‘0’ for 15 seconds. Multinucleated giant cells with faceted nuclei and homogeneously stained ‘ground-glass’ chromatin constitute a positive smear. Intranuclear type A inclusion bodies may be seen in Giemsa-stained smears.

The virus particle may also be demonstrated under electron microscope. it is not possible to differentiate between herpes simplex and varicella zoster by microscopy. The herpesvirus antigen may be demonstrated in smears or sections from lesions by fluorescent antibody technique. PCR-based DNA detection has replaced brain biopsy.

Virus isolation

In this method, vesicle fluid, spinal fluid, saliva, and swabs may be used. The Typical cytopathic changes appear as early as 24 – 48 hours but before 2 weeks cultures should be observed and declared negative.

Serology

Serological methods are useful in diagnosis of primary infections. 

Chemotherapy

• Eye and skin infections – Idoxuridine
• Deep and systemic infection – acyclovir and vidarabine
• In oral and topical uses – valaciclovir and famciclovir

Herpesvirus similar : B virus

This virus was isolated by Sabin and Wright (1934) from the brain of a laboratory worker who developed fatal ascending myelitis after being bitten by a healthy monkey. it came to be known as the ‘B’ virus from the initials of this patient. the official name for B virus is cercopithecine herpesvirus 1 . Herpes virus similar infects old world monkeys in the same manner that herpes simplex infects humans, the infection is asymptomatic. The infection cases by monkey bites. Herpes virus is similar to herpes simplex virus in its properties. the two are antigenically related but the herpes simplex virus antibody does not protect against herpesvirus infection.