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Test Code D VZV Varicella-Zoster Virus (VZV) Detection by PCR, Spinal Fluid or Vitreous Fluid

Performing Laboratory

Viracor Eurofins Clinical Diagnostics

Methodology

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)/Biotinylated Probe Hybridization

(PCR is utilized pursuant to a license agreement with Roche Molecular Systems, Inc.)

Reference Values

Not detected

Assay Range 251 copies/mL to 1 x 10(8) copies/mL

Test Classification and CPT Coding

87799

Day(s) and Time(s) Performed

Monday through Sunday

 

TAT 1 - 3 Days

Physician Office Specimen Requirements

Submit only 1 of the following specimens:

 

Spinal Fluid

2 mL of spinal fluid in a screw-capped, sterile vial. Maintain sterility and forward promptly at ambient temperature. If there is a delay in transport of >24 hours, send specimen frozen in plastic vial.

Note:  1. Indicate spinal fluid on request form.

2. Label specimen appropriately (spinal fluid)

 

Vitreous Fluid

2 mL of vitreous fluid in a screw-capped, sterile vial, or original syringe capped to prevent leakage. Needle must be removed prior to transportation. Send specimen refrigerated. Maintain sterility and forward promptly. If there is a delay in transport of  >24 hours, send specimen frozen in plastic container.

Note:  1. Indicate vitreous fluid on request form.

2. Label specimen appropriately (vitreous fluid)

Computer Interface Code

PDM #  635051

Useful For

VZV reactivation is commonly seen in immunocompromised individuals. These patients are more likely to have disseminated disease with extensive skin lesions, pneumonia, hepatitis, or encephalitis. Proper management is dependent upon early diagnosis; quantitative DNA PCR is a rapid and sensitive tool useful for detecting the virus, tracking the course of the infection, and monitoring response to treatment.