ARUP's Laboratory Test Directory

Herpes Simplex Virus DFA with Reflex to Herpes Simplex Virus Culture : 0060280

Mnemonic: HSVFAC

Ordering Recommendation: Alternate test for detection of herpes simplex virus infection. Negative DFA result reflexes to viral culture for confirmation. Molecular testing is generally preferred.
Methodology: Direct Fluorescent Antibody Stain
Performed: Sun-Sat
Reported: Within 24 hours
Specimen Required: Collect: Buccal mucosa lesion, cervical or genital lesion, eye, throat or vesicle swab, bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL), tissue or vesicle fluid.

Specimen Preparation: Fluid: Transfer specimen to a sterile container. Also acceptable: Transfer to viral transport media (ARUP Supply #12884). Available online through eSupply using ARUP Connect™ or contact ARUP Client Services at (800) 522-2787.
Swab or Tissue:
Place in viral transport media. Place each specimen in an individually sealed bag.


Storage/Transport Temperature: Refrigerated.

Remarks: Specimen source preferred.

Unacceptable Conditions: Bone marrow, CSF, or whole blood. Calcium alginate, dry, or wood swabs.

Stability (collection to initiation of testing): Ambient: 4 hours; Refrigerated: 72 hours; Frozen: Unacceptable

Reference Interval:
Negative
Note: If DFA is negative or inadequate, then a HSV culture will be added. Additional charges apply.

Sensitivity of DFA methodology is dependent upon adequacy of the specimen.  If specimen contains fewer than 20 cells, then the DFA result will be reported as "inadequate."
CPT Code(s): 87274; 87273; if reflexed, add 87252; 87253.
Cross References: Herpes Simplex Virus by DFA (Herpes Simplex Virus DFA with Reflex to Herpes Simplex Virus Culture), HSV DFA (Herpes Simplex Virus DFA with Reflex to Herpes Simplex Virus Culture)