Laboratory Services
Varicella Zoster Rapid PCR, Swab or CSF
Print this pageUpdated Test Information:
| Test Description |
Varicella Zoster Rapid PCR, Swab or CSF
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Test ID |
VZVRPD
|
|
| Performing Lab |
Labcorp |
|
| General Information |
The DiaSorin Simplexa™ Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV) Direct FDA approved assay is a rapid real-time PCR that enables the direct amplification, detection of VZV from both cutaneous and mucocutaneous swab specimens and CSF specimens. A well conserved region of the VZV DNA polymerase gene is targeted to identify VZV in the specimen. Results are reported as Detected or NOT detected and a semi-qualitative result is provided by reporting the PCR Cycle threshold (Ct) value for positive specimens. |
|
| Container Type |
Swab in viral or universal transport medium (VTM/UTM) or whole blood |
|
| Specimen Type |
Lavender-top (EDTA) tube, yellow-top (ACD) tube OR viral/universal transport medium (swab) medium (swab) |
|
| Specimen Requirements |
1 mL |
|
| Specimen Collection / Processing Instructions |
Swabs: Transport specimens on ice, store at 2 to 8°C for up to 7 days post collection. If there is a greater than 7 days delay before testing of the specimen, store specimen at -60 to -85°C. Do not freeze/thaw. CSF: If CSF has cellular material, centrifuge & aliquot clear CSF. Transport CSF on ice, store at 2 to 8°C for up to 7 days post collection. If there is a greater than 7 days delay before testing of the specimen, store specimen at -60 to -85°C. Do not freeze/thaw. |
|
| Minimum Sample Volume |
0.1 mL |
|
| Stability |
Room temperature |
|
| Unacceptable Specimen Conditions |
Calcium alginate swabs, they may contain substances that inhibit PCR testing. |
|
| Department (code) |
Clinical Virology |
|
| Methodology |
Real-time Polymerase Chain Reaction |
|
| Testing Schedule |
Monday- Friday 07:00- 21:00, Saturday and Sunday 09:00-16:00 |
|
| Test Includes |
VZVRSD Varicella Zoster PCR, Specimen Desc |
|
| CPT Code(s) |
87798 |
|
| LOINC Code(s) |
