Rapid tissue diagnosis of herpes simplex infections in the newborn.

The presence of intranuclear inclusions in tissues is considered to be consistent with viral infections. Further identification is done by viral cultures. In this study, the direct immunofluorescence technique was utilized to identify herpes simplex virus in the tissues. Positive fluorescence was seen in 8 of 12 specimens. In all these specimens, diagnosis was further confirmed by electron microscopy, viral cultures, or both. Thus, the technique is a specific, sensitive method of diagnosis for herpes simplex infections. Rapidity and simplicity of the technique warrant regular use.