ARUP's Laboratory Test Directory
| 0060283: Varicella-Zoster Virus & Herpes Simplex Virus DFA with Reflex to Varicella-Zoster Virus Culture & Herpes Simplex Virus Culture |
| Test Mnemonic: VZV HSVFAC | |
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Methodology: Direct Fluorescent Antibody Stain
Performed: Sun-Sat Reported: 1-6 days |
| Specimen Required: | |
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Collect: Vesicle fluid/swab (first three days of rash), tissue, or skin scrapings. Immediately place specimen in viral transport media and refrigerate. Source of specimen is preferred.
Transport: Specimen in viral transport media at 2-8°C. Transfer sample ASAP after collection. Extremely temperature sensitive. Submit specimen according to Biological Substance, Category B, shipping guidelines. Pediatric Collection/Transport: Submit specimen according to Biological Substance, Category B, shipping guidelines. Remarks: Do not freeze. Unacceptable Conditions: CSF, whole blood, bone marrow, dry swabs, calcium alginate swabs, and wood swabs. Stability: Ambient: Unacceptable; Refrigerated: 2 days; Frozen: Unacceptable |
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| Reference Interval: |
| Negative |
| Note: | |
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If DFA is negative or inadequate, then a VZV/HSV culture will be added. Sensitivity of DFA methodology is dependent upon adequacy of the specimen. If there are fewer than 20 cells, the DFA result will be reported as "sample 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 |