Methodology
Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR)
Synonyms
HSV PCR; HSV 1/2
Specimen Type
See Collection Instructions
Performing Lab
Quest Diagnostics San Juan Capistrano
Epic ID
LAB01238
Lab Test Days
Daily
Standard TAT
1-2 Days
Collection Information
Specimen Required
0.3-1 mL CSF, Pleural fluid, Pericardial fluid; or 0.35-1 mL Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL)/wash; or 0.5-1 mL Vitreous fluid
Container Type
Sterile Container
Collection Instructions
Serum collected in a serum separator tube (SST); or Lesion swab collected in Quest VCM/viral transport media or APTIMA Unisex Swab Collection Kit is also acceptable. Quest VCM/viral transport media or APITMA Unisex Swab Collection Kit can be obtained from lab. Quest VCM/viral transport media are located in the processing refrigerator top shelf and APTIMA Unisex Swab Collection Kits are located by the Quest processing supplies in Referral Testing area or storage room. Indicate source in comments and on specimen.
Processing Information - Lab Use Only
Transport Temperature
Refrigerate-OK/Frozen-OK
Specimen Stability
Room Temp: 48 Hours (14 Days for APTIMA); Refrigerated: 7 Days (14 Days for APTIMA); Frozen: 30 Days
Rejection Criteria
AVANTIK viral transport media; Whole blood
Test Volume Required
1 mL
Minimum Test Volume
0.3-0.5 mL
Processing Instructions
Indicate source in comments, on specimen and on batch sheet.
Comments
Refer to in-house HSV PCR for plasma, CSF or Lesion swabs.
CPT Codes
87529 (x2)
Revised
1/15/25
Initials
SA