ARUP's Laboratory Test Directory

Varicella-Zoster Virus DFA with Reflex to Varicella-Zoster Virus Culture : 0060282

Mnemonic: VZVFAC

Methodology: Direct Fluorescent Antibody Stain
Performed: Sun-Sat
Reported: 3-5 days
DFA: Within 24 hours; Culture: 3-5 days
Specimen Required: Patient Prep: Collect vesicle specimen during first three days of rash.

Collect: Vesicle fluid or swab, tissue, or skin scrapings. Swab should be rolled in base of fresh vesicle to obtain cells.

Specimen Preparation: Immediately transfer specimen to viral transport media (ARUP Supply #12884) and refrigerate (extremely temperature sensitive). Available online through eSupply using ARUP Connect™ or contact ARUP Client Services at (800) 522-2787.

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: Unacceptable; Refrigerated: 48 hours; Frozen: Unacceptable
Reference Interval:
Negative
Interpretive Data: Approximately 20% of samples submitted for VZV are positive for herpes simplex virus.  Testing for herpes simplex virus is NOT included in this test.
Note: If DFA is negative or inadequate, then a VZV 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): 87290; if reflexed, add 87252; 87254
Cross References: Chicken Pox (Varicella-Zoster Virus DFA with Reflex to Varicella-Zoster Virus Culture), Herpes Zoster (Varicella-Zoster Virus DFA with Reflex to Varicella-Zoster Virus Culture), Shingles (Varicella-Zoster Virus DFA with Reflex to Varicella-Zoster Virus Culture), VZV DFA (Varicella-Zoster Virus DFA with Reflex to Varicella-Zoster Virus Culture)