In order to diagnose infection-inducing viruses, a viral examination or a viral marker test is performed. Viruses can only reproduce in living cells. Viruses cause illness by killing or harming the cells they invade, compromising the immune system, altering the genetic material (DNA) of the infected cells, or inducing swelling that can damage an organ. Viruses are responsible for a variety of illnesses, like the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), cold sores, chickenpox, measles, influenza (flu), and several forms of cancer.

For a viral examination, various types of samples are used. Blood, vomit, stool (feces), organ tissue, spinal fluid, and saliva are among them. The type of sample used for the procedure is determined by the type of infection present.

A Viral Market Test is performed to detect and diagnose a range of viral infections, some of which include: 

Herpes:

Caused by the herpes simplex virus, herpes is a contagious infection that is transmitted via direct human contact. There are two types of herpes, HSV-1 (oral herpes) and HSV-2 (genital herpes).

Hepatitis:

A viral infection that causes the inflammation of the liver, hepatitis is classified under five categories, Hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E.

Human immunodeficiency virus:

Commonly referred to as HIV, human immunodeficiency is a viral infection that causes deterioration of the immune system. A contagious virus, HIV is communicable between humans only and its presence can lead to the development of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome or AIDS.

Human Papillomavirus Virus:

With more than 100 variants, HPV is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STI). HPV can severely affect the genitals, throat, or mouth, and can lead to throat, cervix, and anus cancers.

The Importance of a Viral Marker Test

A viral market test provides the following benefits during diagnosis of a specific viral infection:To find and identify the viral infection that’s causing the current symptoms.To check for viral infections in case of accidental exposure, e.g. a healthcare professional being accidentally pricked by an infected needle.To detect any viral contagions in a blood donor to avoid transmission of the infected blood.To detect viral infections in an organ donor to avoid transplantation of a possible infected organ.To test a pregnant woman who could have a high chance of transmitting a viral infection to the fetus or the delivered baby.