In-House Testing For HSV Via PCR Improves Efficiency, Quality Of Neonatal HSV Evaluations, Study Suggests

Infectious Disease Advisor (8/14, Kuhns) reports, “In-house testing for herpes simplex virus (HSV) via polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was found to significantly improve the efficiency and quality of neonatal HSV evaluations, leading to reduced acyclovir exposure, shorter hospital stays, and more complete diagnostic workups, according to study results.” The researchers said “in-house performance of HSV PCR testing should be considered to minimize acyclovir exposure, expedite discharge, and improve outcomes in neonates warranting evaluation for HSV.” The findings were published in the Journal of the Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society.