Methodology
Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR)
Synonyms
EBV
Specimen Type
See Collection Instructions
Performing Lab
Quest Diagnostics San Juan Capistrano
Epic ID
Other Reference Test
Lab Test Days
Daily
Standard TAT
1 Day
Collection Information
Specimen Required
0.3-1 mL Whole Blood
Container Type
EDTA (Lavender-Top) Tube
Collection Instructions
0.3-1 mL Serum collected in a red-top tube; 0.3-1 mL CSF collected in a sterile, plastic, leak-proof container; >3 cubic mm fresh tissue collected in a sterile, plastic, leak-proof container; or 0.3-1 mL Body fluids (amniotic fluid, ocular fluid), Lower respiratory specimens (BAL, bronchial wash, tracheal secretions) collected in a sterile, plastic, leak-proof container is also acceptable.
Processing Information - Lab Use Only
Transport Temperature
Refrigerate-OK/Frozen-OK
Specimen Stability
Room Temp: 48 Hours; Refrigerated: 8 Days; Frozen: 30 Days (Unacceptable for Whole Blood)
Rejection Criteria
Hemolyzed whole blood; Heparin whole blood
Test Volume Required
1 mL
Minimum Test Volume
0.3 mL
Processing Instructions
Indicate source in Epic, on specimen and on batch sheet submitted with specimen.
Comments
For plasma, refer to EBV DNA, Qualitative (LAB001337) done in-house.
CPT Codes
87798
Revised
11/7/25
Initials
SA