ARUP's Laboratory Test Directory

Viral Culture, Non-Respiratory, and Cytomegalovirus Rapid Culture : 2006496

Mnemonic: V VIC N

Ordering Recommendation: For best results, specify specimen source and suspected virus on order form. Molecular diagnostics are preferred for suspected invasive CMV.
Methodology: Cell Culture/Immunofluorescence
Performed: Sun-Sat
Reported: Viral Culture: 3-16 days
Cytomegalovirus Rapid Culture: 1-5 days
Specimen Required: Collect: Eye swab, lesion, tissue (brain, colon, kidney, liver, etc.), or urine.

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

Storage/Transport Temperature: Refrigerated.

Remarks: Specimen source preferred.

Unacceptable Conditions: Calcium alginate, dry, or wood swabs.

Stability (collection to initiation of testing): Ambient: 2 hours; Refrigerated: 72 hours; Frozen: Unacceptable
Reference Interval:
Negative.
Note: Identification is billed separately from culture. Viruses that can be isolated include: adenovirus, cytomegalovirus, enterovirus, herpes simplex virus, and varicella-zoster virus.  However, virus-specific tests are recommended for varicella-zoster virus (order Varicella-Zoster Virus DFA with Reflex to Varicella-Zoster Virus Culture, ARUP test code 0060282).

The following tests are standard of care for diagnosing viral infection in CSF specimens:
Cytomegalovirus by PCR (ARUP test code 0060040)
Enterovirus Detection by RT-PCR (ARUP test code 0050249)
Herpes Simplex Virus by PCR (ARUP test code 0060041)
Varicella-Zoster Virus by PCR (ARUP test code 0060042)

An ELISA test (Rotavirus & Adenovirus 40-41 Antigens, ARUP test code 0065067)) is available for enteric adenoviruses 40-41 and rotavirus in stool specimens.  For measles virus culture, order Measles (Rubeola) Virus Culture (ARUP test code 0065055).  For mumps virus culture, order Mumps Virus Culture (ARUP test code 0065056). 

If a specific virus is suspected, please indicate which virus on the test request.
CPT Code(s): 87252; 87254; if definitive identification performed, add 87253