Varicella-Zoster virus (VZV)

Varicella-Zoster Virus (VZV), also known as human herpesvirus 3 (HHV-3, HHV3), is a member of the herpesvirus family and the causative agent of both chickenpox (primary infection) and shingles (herpes zoster or zona, reactivation). Ramsay Hunt syndrome type 2 (RHS), also known as herpes zoster oticus is inflammation of the geniculate ganglion of the facial nerve as a late consequence of VZV. In immunocompromised individuals and newborns, VZV can cause severe complications such as encephalitis, pneumonia, and disseminated disease. Accurate and sensitive detection is essential for diagnosis and clinical management.
VZV PCR kits based on real-time PCR technology provide a specific and sensitive method for detecting VZV DNA in human samples. These molecular diagnostics tools offer accurate and reproducible results in routine and specialized laboratory workflows. Available in CE IVD-marked format for diagnostic use and as research use only (RUO) version, these PCR assays support a wide range of applications including neurological infection diagnostics from clinical samples, rash illness differentiation, and transplant recipient monitoring.
VZV as well as some other Herpes-virus pathogens are part of TORCH group. Please find selected VZV assays which can be used in relation to significant risks during pregnancy also in the specific TORCH category together with other non-Herpes-virus pathogens.