Enhanced method of herpes simplex virus culture confirmation using the virogen herpes slide test

Of 100 herpes simplex virus specimens, 30% were detected by the Virogen Herpes Slide test at the initial observation of cytopathic effect (CPE) on MRC-5 cells. The remainder became positive after the CPE had progressed. Enhancement of the test procedure was accomplished by vortexing the infected cells to disrupt the monolayer, and the time to positivity became equivalent to the initial time of CPE. Compared with a fluorescent-antibody technique, the Virogen Herpes Slide test was 100% sensitive and specific when used for culture confirmation of herpes simplex virus.