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").
Alternative Names:
Herpes skin test; Chicken pox skin test
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.
How to prepare for the test:
There is no special preparation necessary.
How the test will feel:
When the sore is scraped or rubbed, there may be mild discomfort.
Review Date: 2/10/2006
Reviewed By: Kenneth Wener, M.D., Division of Infectious Diseases, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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