HomeLab TestsChickenpox and Shingles Tests
Back to Lab Tests
Chickenpox and Shingles Tests
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Lab Tests

Chickenpox and Shingles Tests

Chickenpox and shingles tests identify the presence of the varicella zoster virus (VZV) or antibodies to it, helping to confirm an active infection or determine immunity.

Overview

These tests check for the varicella zoster virus (VZV), also known as human herpesvirus 3. The first infection causes chickenpox. Once recovered, the virus remains dormant in nerve cells and can reactivate later in life as shingles (herpes zoster).

Types of Tests

  • PCR (polymerase chain reaction) test: The most accurate method; looks for genetic material from VZV, usually via a swab of open blisters.
  • Viral culture test: Grows cells from a swab sample in a lab; less accurate than PCR.
  • Direct fluorescent antibody (DFA) test: A rapid test using fluorescent dye to identify VZV in a swab sample.
  • Antibody test: A blood test checking for IgM (current/recent infection) or IgG (past exposure/immunity).

Why Testing is Needed

While visual exams are common, testing is often ordered for high-risk individuals, including pregnant women, infants, and those with weakened immune systems (e.g., HIV, cancer, organ transplant recipients, or those on immunosuppressive medications). Symptoms for both include a red, blistering rash, fever, headache, and sore throat.

Chickenpox rash typically starts on the chest, back, and face before spreading. Shingles rash is often painful and itchy, appearing in a band on one side of the body or face, preceded by pain or tingling.

Procedure and Risks

Testing involves either a blood draw from a vein or a swab of fluid from a blister. Both procedures are quick and carry minimal risk, primarily slight pain or bruising at the blood draw site.

Prevention

Vaccination is the primary prevention method:

  • Chickenpox vaccine: Recommended for children (two doses) and adults who have never had the disease or the vaccine.
  • Shingrix: A shingles vaccine recommended for healthy adults age 50 and older, and adults 19 and older with weakened immune systems. It is recommended even if you have already had shingles.

Frequently Asked Questions

negative PCR does not rule out shingles, especially if the blisters have started to crust over or if the sample was taken late in the outbreak. The virus may no longer be present in sufficient quantities to be detected. In this case, the diagnosis is often made clinically based on the characteristic one-sided, band-like rash and associated pain. Your provider may treat you for shingles based on symptoms and history, or they may order a DFA test or repeat the PCR if the rash is still active and atypical.
No. An IgG antibody indicates past exposure to the varicella zoster virus and immunity, not an active infection. To confirm active shingles or chickenpox, a PCR test performed on fluid from a blister is the gold standard, as it detects the actual viral genetic material. A positive IgM result may suggest a recent or current infection, but it can sometimes cross-react or remain elevated for a short time after recovery, so clinicians often rely on PCR for definitive diagnosis during an active outbreak.
PCR results are typically available within 24 to 48 hours because the laboratory is amplifying and detecting specific viral DNA sequences. Antibody tests (IgG/IgM) may take slightly longer, often 3 to 5 business days, depending on the laboratory's processing schedule. If a viral culture is ordered instead of PCR, results can take up to two weeks because the virus must be grown in a cell culture environment.
Generally, no. If you have a documented history of chickenpox or have received the chickenpox vaccine, you are considered at risk for shingles and are eligible for the shingles vaccine (Shingrix) if you meet the age criteria (typically 50 and older, or 19 and older if immunocompromised). Testing is not required for vaccination eligibility. However, if you are unsure whether you had chickenpox as a child, your provider may order an IgG blood test to confirm immunity before proceeding, though many clinicians will proceed with vaccination if the history is uncertain.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

kontakt@hittavard.se

Ⓒ 2024. Alla rättigheter förbehålls av juxt ab

Sök
Om ossVillkor och policyVanliga frågorKontakta oss