Herpesvirus papio 2 (HVP-2)

Test code: S0027 - Qualitative detection of Herpesvirus Papio 2 (HVP-2) by polymerase chain reaction

Infection of baboons with herpesvirus papio 2 (HVP-2) produces a disease that is similar to human infection with herpes simplex viruses (HSV). HVP-2 infection is associated with oral and genital lesions that resemble HSV infections of humans. Male baboons develop erythema of the penis with papules or pustules that develop into small ulcerative lesions. Female baboons have been observed with ulcerative lesions on the vulvar tissues. Juvenile animals were found to have primarily oral lesions. Acquisition of genital infection is primarily associated with the onset of sexual activity in baboons. Furthermore, one study provided evidence that the virus could spontaneously reactivate from latency, a pattern consistent with HSV infection of humans.

Serological analysis has determined that over 90% of wild-caught baboons were found to have anti-HVP-2 titers, confirming that baboons are a natural host for HVP-2. However, it is not clear what percentage of them are active carriers of this virus.

Although virus isolation can be used to diagnose HVP-2 virus infection and determine carrier status, a long incubation period is required to obtain results. Viral culture also increases the potential risk of laboratory personnel contacting this virus. Furthermore, viral culture is not as sensitive or specific as PCR-based techniques. Serological testing for HVP-2 antigens is difficult because of the close antigenic relation between surface antigens among the alphaherpesviruses. HVP-2 detection by PCR is the most rapid, sensitive and specific method for the diagnosis of this infection and confirmation of the carrier status of the animal.

Utilities:

• Confirm the disease causing agent
• Ensure that animal colonies are free of HVP-2
• Early prevention of spread of this virus among a colony
• Minimize personnel exposure to this virus
• Safety monitoring of biological products and vaccines that derive from monkeys

Specimen requirement: 1 ml whole blood in EDTA (purple top) or ACD (yellow top) tube, shipped overnight at room temperature.

For specimen types other than those listed here, please call to confirm specimen acceptability and shipping instructions.

For all specimen types, if there will be a delay in shipping, or during very warm weather, refrigerate specimens until shipped and ship with a cold pack unless more stringent shipping requirements are specified. Frozen specimens should be shipped so as to remain frozen in transit. See shipping instructions for more information.

Turnaround time: 2 business days

Methodology: Qualitative PCR

Normal range: Nondetected