Exams and Tests

A doctor will base a diagnosis on information you provide and on physical examination. The characteristic appearance of the herpes sores leaves little doubt. Further testing is usually not necessary.

If you require a definitive diagnosis, for instance, if your infection involves other organ systems, the doctor may conduct laboratory tests.

• A sample from the sores to identify the virus

• A culture analysis

• A staining test called the Tzanck smear

• Antigen and antibody studies

• Blood sampling for antibody studies