Varicella-zoster virus (VZV)

The diagnosis of a viral infection is made easier by the creation of a greater number of diagnostic virology laboratories during the past few decades. In order for viral diagnosis to be successful, the most appropriate specimen must be collected for the disease in question.VZV and HSV are most often recovered from skin lesions, although varicella IgM antibody detection may be the most rapid way to diagnose acute VZV infection. Detection and identification of these viruses is essential because of the availability of antiviral agents such as acyclovir. Other viruses, such as enteroviruses and paramyxoviruses, cause skin lesions.