PCR or Culture

What is more accurate for lesions?

[gracefromHHP]

pcr swabs are more accurate than cultures - they have a lower false negative rate. Regular viral lesion cultures rely on actually growing out virus in the lab which isn't always easy.  Pcr - looks for dna from the virus on the swab.

grace

[tmac1421]

Thanks for the answer.  I've had two PCR's done from a single blister on my shaft and a sore on my butt cheek.  Both negative, both witin 24-36 hours.  I've read alot into Blood Tests and they seem really murky...so don't know if I even want to pursue one.

[gracefromHHP]

Doesn't sound like it's herpes then. i'd follow up with a blood test just to make sure though.

grace