Cytomegalovirus DNA, Skin Epithelial Cell Scraping (PCR)
The study is conducted to detect cytomegalovirus (CMV) DNA by PCR in skin epithelial cells.
Used for diagnosing cutaneous forms of cytomegalovirus infection.
Applied for rashes, ulcerative and erosive skin lesions of unclear origin.
Prescribed for patients with immunodeficiency and weakened immunity, including HIV-infected, oncological, and transplant patients.
Allows determination of CMV's involvement in skin inflammatory processes and assessment of the need for antiviral treatment.
What the test assesses:
– Presence of CMV DNA in skin cells.
– Local viral infection activity at the epidermal level.
– Possible viral involvement in the development of skin inflammation and lesions.
Biomaterial: Skin epithelial cell scraping
– Do not treat the skin area with antiseptics for 24-48 hours.
– Do not apply creams, ointments, or cosmetics to the collection area.
– Avoid mechanical skin damage in the examination area.
Medications:
– If possible, discontinue antiviral medications 48-72 hours before.
– Do not use local antibacterial and antiseptic agents for 5-7 days.
– If discontinuation is not possible, be sure to inform the doctor of all medications taken.
Recommended for testing:
– With skin lesions of unclear etiology, rashes, ulcers, and erosions.
– When CMV infection is suspected in patients with skin manifestations.
– With decreased immunity and viral activity monitoring.
– With immunosuppressive therapy and CMV reactivation risk.
– Positive result: CMV DNA detected in skin cells, indicating active viral involvement in the skin inflammatory process. Clinical significance assessment is required, and if necessary, antiviral treatment.
– Negative result: CMV DNA not detected; active infection is unlikely.
Important — results are interpreted together with the clinical picture, serological tests (IgG/IgM), and concomitant tests.
