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Diagnostic Test – Herpes Simplex PCR
1. What is this?

Herpes simplex PCR is a molecular diagnostic test performed on cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).
It detects HSV DNA and is the single most accurate diagnostic test for herpes simplex encephalitis.


2. When is this the correct choice?
Select HSV PCR of the CSF when the clinical scenario includes:
  • Fever
  • Headache
  • Altered mental status or confusion
  • Symptom duration less than 2 weeks

Key test-taking point:
  • CSF HSV PCR is more accurate than:
    • EEG
    • Head CT
    • Brain MRI
    • Even brain biopsy
Therefore, when herpes encephalitis is suspected, CSF HSV PCR is the diagnostic test of choice.


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Kembara Xtra 

Facts about medicine and its subtopic such as anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, pharmacology, medicine, pediatrics, psychiatry, obstetrics and gynecology and surgery.