Test Code VZVDQ Varicella-Zoster Virus (VZV) DNA, Qualitative Real-Time PCR
Additional Codes
Epic: LAB3404
Quest: 34052
Specimen Required
Specimen Type: Whole Blood, EDTA
Collection Container/Type
Preferred: Lavender top (EDTA)
Acceptable: Yellow top (ACD Solution B) or
CSF collected in a sterile container or
Bronchial wash/brush collected in a sterile container or
Lesion swab collected in VCM or equivalent (UTM, M4) or
Eye fluid (vitreous) collected in sterile container
Specimen Volume: 1 mL all other specimens
0.5 mL Eye fluid
Specimen Minimum Volume
0.3 mL all other specimens
0.2 mL eye fluid
Specimen Stability
Whole blood
Room temperature: 48 hours
Refrigerated: 8 days
Frozen: Unacceptabl
All other specimens
Room temperature: 48 hours
Refrigerated: 8 days
Frozen: 30 days
Reference Range
Not detected
Rejection Due To
Heparin whole blood
Report Available
1 day
Clinical Significance
Detect the varicella zoster virus (VZV DNA) in skin lesions, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and specimens from respiratory tract. Active, detection of viral DNA in CSF usually indicates active, not latent, infection. Detection of VZV DNA in appropriate clinical specimens permits rapid and sensitive patient testing.
Method Name
Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction
This test was developed and its analytical performance characteristics have been determined by Quest Diagnostics. It has not been cleared or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. This assay has been validated pursuant to the CLIA regulations and is used for clinical purposes.
CPT Code(s)
87798
Aliases
Herpes Zoster,Zoster, Varicella,VZV
Day(s) Performed
Daily