Understanding Lab Tests for Postherpetic Neuralgia
Written by Private MD Labs Medical Writing Team • Last Updated: September 8, 2025
Postherpetic neuralgia is a painful complication that can occur after a shingles infection, where nerve pain persists for months or years after the characteristic rash has healed. This condition is diagnosed clinically based on symptoms and medical history. There is no specific blood test to diagnose postherpetic neuralgia itself; however, lab testing can be valuable for confirming a history of varicella-zoster virus infection.
Recommended Test
Varicella-Zoster Virus (VZV) Antibodies, IgG (Chickenpox)
This test detects IgG antibodies against the varicella-zoster virus, indicating past infection with either chickenpox or shingles. Since postherpetic neuralgia is a complication that occurs after shingles, the presence of these antibodies confirms previous viral exposure and supports the clinical diagnosis when patients present with characteristic nerve pain symptoms.
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Why Blood Testing is Important for Postherpetic Neuralgia
Since postherpetic neuralgia develops as a complication of shingles, confirming previous exposure to the varicella-zoster virus can support the clinical diagnosis. This is particularly useful when the initial shingles episode was mild, undiagnosed, or occurred years earlier, helping healthcare providers understand the underlying cause of persistent nerve pain.
Important Considerations
The information here is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.
