title: Office dermatologic testing: the Tzanck preparation.
abstract: Whether a vesicobullous disease is intraepidermal or subepidermal is often difficult to determine from the clinical examination. The Tzanck preparation can provide clues that aid in the diagnosis of a number of diseases. It is particularly helpful in confirming the diagnosis of herpes infection. This article outlines the materials and steps for performing this valuable test.
authors.affiliation: Dermatology Section, Northeastern Ohio Universities College of Medicine, Rootstown.
authors.forename: R T
authors.initials: RT
authors.lastname: Brodell
authors.forename: S E
authors.initials: SE
authors.lastname: Helms
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Devine
mesh_terms: D001399:Azure Stains; D002985:Clinical Protocols / Q000592:standards; D003584:Cytological Techniques / Q000592:standards*; D015726:Giant Cells / Q000473:pathology; D006561:Herpes Simplex / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000473:pathology; D006801:Humans; D008853:Microscopy; D009819:Office Visits; D011933:Reagent Kits, Diagnostic
chemical_list: D001399:Azure Stains; D011933:Reagent Kits, Diagnostic