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HelpTest ID HSVC Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV), Molecular Detection, PCR, Spinal Fluid
Secondary ID
63434Useful For
Aiding in the rapid diagnosis of herpes simplex virus (HSV)-1 and HSV-2 infections of the central nervous system
Specimen Type
CSFSpecimen Required
Supplies: Sarstedt Aliquot Tube, 5 mL (T914)
Container/Tube: Plastic vial
Specimen Volume: 0.2 mL
Collection Instructions:
1. Submit from second spinal fluid collection vial.
2. Transfer into aliquot vial using sterile technique.
3. Do not centrifuge or heat inactivate.
Additional Information:
1. The high sensitivity of amplification by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) requires the specimen to be processed in an environment in which contamination of the specimen by herpes simplex virus DNA is not likely.
2. Specimens that are received with less than the minimum volume required for all testing requested will be canceled.
Specimen Stability Information
| Specimen Type | Temperature | Time |
|---|---|---|
| CSF | Refrigerated (preferred) | 7 days |
| Frozen | 7 days |
Reject Due To
| Heat-treated spinal fluid | Reject |
Reference Values
Negative
Day(s) Performed
Monday through Sunday
Report Available
Same day/1 to 2 daysPerforming Laboratory
Mayo Clinic Laboratories in Rochester
CPT Code Information
87529 x 2
87529 (if appropriate for government payers)
Testing Algorithm
For more information see Meningitis/Encephalitis Panel Algorithm.
Special Instructions
Forms
If not ordering electronically, complete, print, and send a Microbiology Test Request (T244) with the specimen.