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Test Code VZPQC Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV) Quantitative Real-time PCR (CSF)

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
CSF (aka VZPQC)
Sunquest Order Code: VZPQC
Epic Px Code: LAB7096

Specimen Collection Type

CSF

Minimum Collection Volume

0.5 mL

Reference Range

251 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 other than
cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)

Specimen Availability for Add-on Testing

This test cannot be added on (Critical frozen)

Specimen Stability

Frozen: 7 days
Refrigerated: Unacceptable
Ambient: Unacceptable

Day(s) Performed

Monday through Saturday

Performing Lab- Department

TUKHS-BH-Mail Outs

CPT Code

87799

LOINC Code

N/A

Test Alias

Herpes Zoster, CSF
VZV molecular detection, CSF
VZV PCR,
CSF

Additional Information / Notes

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