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Diagnosis of Shingles

Authors:
  • Amy Scholten, MPH
Publication Type:

Condition InDepth

Diagnosis of Shingles

The doctor will ask about symptoms and past health. Shingles is diagnosed by its pain and its rash. Tests may be done if the rash is not typical. This may mean testing blood, saliva, fluids from the rash, or spinal fluid.

It may take three or more weeks to get the results of some of these tests.

References

  • Herpes zoster. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/herpes-zoster. Accessed November 15, 2021.
  • Saguil A, Kane S, et al. Herpes zoster and postherpetic neuralgia: prevention and management. Am Fam Physician. 2017;96(10):656-663.
  • Shingles (herpes zoster). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. Available at: http://www.cdc.gov/shingles/about/overview.html. Accessed November 15, 2021.
  • Shingles information page. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke website. Available at: https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/All-Disorders/Shingles-Information-Page. Accessed November 15, 2021.
  • Shingles overview. The American Academy of Dermatology website. Available at: https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/shingles-overview. Accessed November 15, 2021.

Contributors

  • David L. Horn, MD, FACP
Last Updated:
2021-11-01

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This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.