Detection of herpes simplex virus in clinical specimens by cytospin-enhanced direct immunofluorescence

For 275 samples tested for herpes simplex virus (HSV), cytospin-enhanced direct immunofluorescence using Chemicon HSV monoclonal antibodies identified 80 (95%) and culture identified 77 (92%) of 84 confirmed positive specimens. Cytospin-prepared slides contained a greater number of total cells than standard cell spots, resulting in fewer inadequate cell smears and a higher HSV detection rate.