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Test Code VZVPC Varicella Zoster Virus PCR

Additional Codes

Software Test Code
Label Text VZVPC
EPIC LAB20650

 

Performing Laboratory

NorDx Laboratories

Useful For

Rapid (qualitative) detection of varicella-zoster virus DNA in clinical specimens for laboratory diagnosis of disease due to this virus.

 

This test should not be used to screen asymptomatic patients.

Method Name

Real Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (rt-PCR)

Reference Values

Not Detected

Days and Times Test Performed

Daily

Report Available

1 Day

Specimen Type

Acceptable Fluids:

  • Occular
  • CSF
  • Pleural
  • Peritoneal/Ascites
  • Synovial
  • Bronchial Washes/Lavage
  • Sputum
  • Tracheal Aspirate

 

Acceptable swab sources:

  • Dermal
  • Eye
  • Throat/Oral
  • Genital

Preferred Container

Fluid:  Sterile Container

Swab:  Universal Transport Medium (UTM)

Preferred Volume

1.0 mL Fluid or UTM 

Minimum Volume

Collecting minimum volumes can result in a need for sample recollection, and/or a delay in results. Minimum volumes are subjective and cannot account for all aspects of specimen and testing needs. Refer to the Preferred Volume section for optimal volumes for laboratory specimens.

 

0.5 mL CSF

200 uL Other Fluid or UTM 

Specimen Collection and Handling

  1. Collect specimen from affected site using sterile container for fluid OR a swab into UTM
  2. Document source on label and in test request

Specimen Stability Information

Specimen Type Temperature Time
All approved specimens Refrigerated 7 days
  Frozen 1 month

Add On Capable

Yes

Advance Beneficiary Notice Requirements

No ABN Required 

CPT Code Information

CPT Code CPT Description CPT Disclaimer
87798 Infectious agent detection by nucleic acid (DNA or RNA), not otherwise specified.  

 

Clinical Significance

Varicella-zoster virus (VZV) causes both varicella (chickenpox) and herpes zoster (shingles). VZV produces a generalized vesicular rash on the dermis (chickenpox) in normal children, usually before 10 years of age. After primary infection with VZV, the virus persists in latent form and may emerge clinically (usually in adults 50 years of age and older) to cause a unilateral vesicular eruption, generally in a dermatomal distribution (shingles).

Rejection Information

Calcium alginate-tipped swab or transport device containing gel is not acceptable for PCR testing.