Utility of a multiplex PCR assay for detecting herpesvirus DNA in clinical samples.

A multiplex PCR was designed to amplify herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2, cytomegalovirus, and varicella-zoster virus DNA present in a diverse range of clinical material. The susceptibility of these viruses to in vivo inhibition by at least one antiviral drug was an important consideration in their inclusion in the multiplex detection system. An aliquot of equine herpesvirus was introduced into each specimen prior to extraction and served as an indicator of potential inhibitors of the PCR and a detector of suboptimal PCR conditions.

Detection of herpes simplex virus in genital specimens by type-specific polymerase chain reaction.

Viral isolation is the standard method for the detection of herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and type 2 (HSV-2) in clinical specimens. This study describes the development of a type-specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay for detection and typing of HSV-1 and HSV-2, and a comparison of its sensitivity with that of isolation in a clinical setting. Specimens from patients presenting with genital ulcers were tested for the presence of HSV by both methods.