ARUP's Laboratory Test Directory

Varicella-Zoster Virus and Herpes Simplex Virus DFA with Reflex to Varicella-Zoster Virus Culture and Herpes Simplex Virus Culture : 0060283

Mnemonic: VZV HSVFAC

Methodology: Direct Fluorescent Antibody Stain
Performed: Sun-Sat
Reported: Within 24 hours
Specimen Required: Patient Prep: Collect vesicle specimen during first 3 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
Note: If DFA is negative or inadequate, then a VZV/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): 87290 VZV; 87274 HSV 1; 87273 HSV 2; if reflexed, add 87252 x2 Tissue culture; 87254 Shell vial; 87253 IP stain
Cross References: Chicken Pox (Varicella-Zoster Virus & Herpes Simplex Virus DFA with Reflex to Varicella-Zoster Virus, Herpes Zoster Antigen Detection & Culture (Varicella-Zoster Virus & Herpes Simplex Virus DFA with Re, Shingles (Varicella-Zoster Virus & Herpes Simplex Virus DFA with Reflex to Varicella-Zoster Virus Cu, VZV Antigen Detection & Culture (Varicella-Zoster Virus & Herpes Simplex Virus DFA with Reflex to Va