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Genital herpes — MRCGP AKT MCQ

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HardInfectious DiseasesGenital herpesMRCGP AKTUKMLAPARA

A patient presents within 48 hours of painful grouped genital vesicles. Which diagnostic sample has the highest value?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: D — Fresh-lesion swab for HSV nucleic-acid testing

The best answer is “Fresh-lesion swab for HSV nucleic-acid testing”. PCR or another validated nucleic-acid test from a fresh vesicle or ulcer is the preferred confirmation. Serology cannot reliably show that current lesions are herpes, and test sensitivity falls as lesions heal. HIV and other STI testing are offered according to risk.

Reference: BASHH: Genital herpes guideline: https://www.bashh.org/resources/21/2024_genital_herpes_guideline/