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Test Code VZPQB Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV) Quantitative Real-time PCR (BAL)

Clinical Indications

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.

Additional Test Codes

Epic Order Name: VARICELLA
ZOSTER PCR
BAL (aka VZPQB)
Sunquest Order Code: VZPQB
Epic Px Code: LAB7098

Specimen Collection Type

BAL collected in a sterile, screw top
container

Minimum Collection Volume

0.5 mL

Reference Range

221 copies/mL to 1×10^8 copies/mL

Critical Value

N/A

Interpretation

The primers and probes used in this assay are specific for
VZV based on similarity search
algorithms. Additionally, no cross reactivity was detected when
tested against adenoviruses, BKV,
CMV, EBV,
HSV-1, HSV-2,
HHV-6 variant A, HHV-6 variant B, HHV-7,
HHV-8, JCV,
parvovirus B19, and SV-40.

Rejection Criteria

Specimens beyond their acceptable length of time from collection
as listed in the specimen stability, specimens received in trap
containers or specimen types other than bronchoalveolar lavage
(BAL).

Specimen Availability for Add-on Testing

2 Days

Specimen Stability

Ambient (preferred): 4 days
Refrigerated: 4 days
Frozen: 7 days

Day(s) Performed

Monday through Saturday

Performing Lab- Department

TUKHS-BH-Mail Outs

CPT Code

87799

LOINC Code

N/A

Test Alias

Herpes Zoster, BAL
VZV molecular detection, BAL
VZV PCR,
BAL

Additional Information / Notes

Turnaround time: Same day (within 8 – 12 hours from
receipt of specimen)