Molecular testing for herpes type 6 virus is used for laboratory diagnosis and documentation of infections by this virus.
Herpesvirus type 6 or herpesvirus-6 (Human Herpes Virus 6, HHV-6) is a member of the family of DNA viruses, Herpesviridae. This family includes members such as Cytomegalovirus (CMV), simple Herpesvirus type 1 (HSV-1) and type 2 (HSV-2), varicella-herpes zoster virus (VZV), Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), and herpes viruses type 7 and 8 (HHV-7 and HHV-8). Infection with HHV-6 occurs early in childhood, with most adults (80 to 90%) are infected with the virus.
Herpes virus type 6 has recently been identified as a causative agent of certain pediatric and adult infections. Acute infection in children - viral rash (roseola infantum) - is clinically characterized as an acute febrile illness with irritability and characteristic rash, among others.
In adults, the herpes type 6 virus has been associated with chronic fatigue syndrome and fever-like episodes that are similar to infectious mononucleosis. The virus has also been associated with diseases of the central nervous system in immunosuppressed patients. However, the majority of HHV-6 infections are asymptomatic. There are several publications where it seems that herpes virus type 6 infection is involved in pathological conditions such as multiple sclerosis, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, in some cases of female infertility, in some neoplasms, hepatic insufficiency, and seizures.
Two different types of Herpesvirus-6 have been identified, type HHV-6A and type HHV-6B. In general, type B has been more closely associated with viral rash, whereas type A has been isolated in patients with immunosuppression.
Important Note
Laboratory test results are the most important parameter for the diagnosis and monitoring of all pathological conditions. 70%-80% of diagnostic decisions are based on laboratory tests. The correct interpretation of laboratory results allows a doctor to distinguish "healthy" from "diseased".
Laboratory test results should not be interpreted from the numerical result of a single analysis. Test results should be interpreted in relation to each individual case and family history, clinical findings, and the results of other laboratory tests and information. Your personal physician should explain the importance of your test results.
At Diagnostiki Athinon we answer any questions you may have about the test you perform in our laboratory and we contact your doctor to get the best possible medical care.
