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Detection of Extravascular Trypanosoma Parasites by Fine Needle Aspiration
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Reintroducing the Tzanck smear.

Brent Kelly1, Tally Shimoni

  • 1Department of Dermatology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas 77555-0783, USA. bckelly@utmb.edu

American Journal of Clinical Dermatology
|April 10, 2009
PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

The Tzanck smear is a quick diagnostic tool for herpes virus infections and other skin conditions. This simple method aids in diagnosing various cutaneous diseases, serving as a valuable adjunct to physical examinations.

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Area of Science:

  • Dermatology
  • Pathology
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • The Tzanck smear is a widely recognized diagnostic method in dermatology.
  • It is primarily known for its utility in identifying herpes virus infections.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To highlight the broader applications of the Tzanck smear beyond herpes virus diagnosis.
  • To emphasize its role in diagnosing other cutaneous conditions.

Main Methods:

  • The Tzanck smear involves collecting material from skin lesions, such as vesicles, blisters, pustules, or tumors.
  • Collected material is air-dried and can be stained using various methods like Giemsa, toluidine blue, or methylene blue.

Main Results:

  • The Tzanck smear is effective for diagnosing herpes virus infections.
  • Its application extends to diagnosing pustular diseases of the newborn, other cutaneous infections, vesiculobullous diseases, and non-melanoma skin cancers.

Conclusions:

  • The Tzanck smear is a versatile and cost-effective diagnostic technique.
  • It serves as a valuable adjunct to the physical examination in clinical dermatology.