What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're experiencing a skin rash, blisters, or unusual lesions that a clinician has already biopsied and wants examined for viral cause. It's a specialized lab test that looks directly at tissue samples (like a skin biopsy) to confirm whether Varicella-Zoster virus, the virus behind chickenpox and shingles, is present. This is typically used when there's uncertainty about the cause of a rash or lesion, especially in complicated or unusual cases.

What's included in this test?

This test uses a specialized staining technique on tissue samples to make the virus visible under a microscope if it's present. It's more precise than a standard blood test because it directly examines the affected tissue rather than looking for antibodies or viral particles in blood, which is helpful for confirming an active infection in complicated or atypical cases.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will appear in your account along with an explanation of what a positive or negative finding means for tissue samples like yours. If the virus is detected, simple next steps include monitoring the area for healing, avoiding contact with people who haven't had chickenpox or the vaccine, and watching for signs the infection is spreading, such as fever or worsening pain, in which case you should seek medical care right away. You can download the full lab report from your account at any time, and if you have repeat testing done, you can track results over time using the trends feature.

How can I naturally support skin healing after a VZV infection?

Keeping the affected skin clean and dry helps it heal faster and lowers the chance of a secondary infection. Loose, breathable clothing over the area reduces friction and irritation while blisters or lesions heal. Getting enough rest, staying hydrated, and eating a nutrient-rich diet support your immune system as it fights off the virus. Avoid scratching or picking at lesions, since this can cause scarring or spread the virus to other areas.

When will I get my results?

Results for this tissue-based test are typically ready within about 7 days. This turnaround allows time for the specialized staining process and careful microscopic examination needed to accurately detect the virus in tissue. You'll be notified as soon as your report is available in your account.

Who should consider this test?

This test is typically considered when a skin or tissue biopsy has already been taken and there's a need to confirm whether Varicella-Zoster virus is the cause of a rash, lesion, or unusual skin finding. It's especially useful in cases where the diagnosis isn't clear from symptoms alone, or when someone has a weakened immune system and unusual or severe skin lesions. It may also be used in cases involving unexplained nerve pain along with a rash.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Common signs that might lead to this test include a painful, blistering rash (often in a band on one side of the body), unexplained skin lesions, or a rash that isn't healing or responding as expected. Nerve pain or tingling in the area before a rash appears is also a common symptom associated with shingles. If a biopsy has already been taken because of unclear or unusual skin findings, this test can help identify the cause.

What is Varicella-Zoster virus and why does it matter?

Varicella-Zoster virus is the same virus that causes chickenpox as a first infection and shingles when it reactivates later in life. It matters because confirming this virus as the cause of a rash or skin condition helps guide the right care and treatment approach. Since it can stay dormant in the body for years after chickenpox, identifying active reactivation is important, especially for people with weakened immune systems.

What does a positive result mean?

A positive result means the virus was found in the tissue sample, confirming it's the cause of the rash or lesion being tested. This is useful information because it points clearly to a viral cause rather than a bacterial or other skin condition. Next steps typically involve supportive skin care and monitoring, and if symptoms worsen or spread, seeking prompt medical care.

What should I do if my results are abnormal?

If your result comes back positive, focus on keeping the area clean, avoiding contact with others who haven't had chickenpox or the vaccine, and monitoring for any worsening symptoms like fever, spreading rash, or increased pain. Keep track of how the area changes over time using your account's trends feature. If you notice signs of a more serious infection, such as high fever or lesions spreading rapidly, seek medical care right away.

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short: In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want. If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test. Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout. If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want. When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system. Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way. You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy! If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

How do I know which test to get?

In the test options, find the test you want. If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option. Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

When will my lab results be available?

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know. After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop! If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you. Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update. Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you. There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out. Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Do you accept health insurance?

Only HSA & FSA is accepted. Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts. This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Can I cancel my order?

Yes. We get it – sometimes your needs change. As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order. If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com. You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

How can I find a lab location near me?

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached! You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp). Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

VZV Tissue Test - Shingles & Chickenpox Virus ID

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:

In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!

754-799-7833

[email protected]

Varicella-Zoster Virus (VZV) Tissue Test with Interpretation

Varicella-Zoster Virus (VZV), IHC with Interpretation

Prescription & all lab fees included

Doctor's guidance included

Fast & convenient

Prescription & all lab fees included

Doctor's guidance included

Fast & convenient

What's this test for?

What's included in this test?

What happens after I get my results?

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Varicella-Zoster Virus (VZV) Tissue Test with Interpretation

Prescription & all lab fees included

Doctor's guidance included

Fast & convenient

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