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Test Code VZPQP Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV) Quantitative Real-time PCR (Plasma)

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
PLASMA (aka VZPQP)
Sunquest Order Code: VZPQP
Epic Px Code: LAB2863

Specimen Collection Type

Preferred: Lavender (EDTA)
Acceptable: Yellow (ACD solution)

Minimum Collection Volume

0.5 mL

Reference Range

278 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 those
listed.

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, Plasma
VZV molecular detection, Plasma
VZV PCR,
Plasma

Additional Information / Notes

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