Shingles

Exams and Tests

Doctors can usually identify shingles when they see an area of rashClick here to see an illustration. around the left or right side of your body. If a diagnosis of shingles is not clear, your doctor may order lab tests, most commonly herpes tests, on cells taken from a blister.

If there is reason to think that shingles is present, your doctor may not wait to perform tests before treating you with antiviral medicines. Early treatment may help shorten the length of the illness and prevent complications such as postherpetic neuralgia.


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Author: Debby Golonka, MPHLast Updated: March 21, 2007
Medical Review: Wajeeh E. Nasser, MD - Family Medicine
Randall D. Burr, MD - Dermatology

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Topic Contents
 Topic Overview
 Cause
 Symptoms
 What Happens
 What Increases Your Risk
 When To Call a Doctor
Arrow PointerExams and Tests
 Treatment Overview
 Prevention
 Home Treatment
 Medications
 Surgery
 Other Treatment
 Other Places To Get Help
 Related Information
 References
 Credits