Unit Code 81445:
Varicella-Zoster Disease (VZV) Detection by In Situ Hybridization
Useful For
Identification of VZV infection in tissue
Clinical Information
Varicella-zoster is a herpes double-stranded DNA virus commonly
associated with chickenpox and shingles.
Infection with (VZV) can be potentially life-threatening especially in
immunocompromised patients. A clinical diagnosis of varicella may be
difficult in some instances, especially when the presentation is atypical
(as in immunocompromised patients).
The histologic appearance of VZV can be similar to herpes simplex
with Cowdry type A intranuclear inclusions (ground-glass) nuclei.
The detection of VZV in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue
sections allows an accurate and specific diagnosis even when
classic histologic and cytologic characteristics are lacking.
Reference Values
This test, when not accompanied by a pathology consultation
request, will be answered as either positive or negative.
If additional interpretation/analysis is needed, please request
#5439 "Surgical Pathology Consultation" along with this test.
Interpretation
A positive test results in blue nuclear staining within the cells.
The results of these tests should be interpreted with the positive
and negative controls along with the other special stains and
histologic examination of the hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) sections.
Cautions
Tissues fixed in formalin for 6-24 hours produce the best results.
High background with nonspecific staining may be seen with B5
and other fixatives.
Clinical Reference
1. Sperry A, Jin L, Lloyd RV: Microwave treatment enhances detection
of RNA and DNA by in situ hybridization. Diagn Mol Pathol 1996;
5:291-296
2. Nikkels AF, Delven P, Sadzot-Delvaux C, et al: Distribution
of varicella zoster virus and herpes simplex virus in disseminated
fatal infections. J Clin Pathol 1996;49:243-248
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