Varicella Zoster Virus (Chicken Pox, Shingles) DNA real-time (TaqMan®) PCR Assay

Varicella Zoster Virus (Chicken Pox, Shingles) DNA real-time (TaqMan®) PCR Assay
Data	Value
Method	Real Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (q-PCR) Amplification of Varicella Zoster Virus DNA
CPT Code
Test Scope	This assay may be used in conjunction with clinical observations and other diagnostic assays to determine infection with Varicella-Zoster Virus (VZV) in specimens collected from patients presenting with pustular or vesicular rash illness.
Preferred Specimen	Swab taken from the base of unroofed lesion Scabs from crusted lesions
Unacceptable Specimens	Swabs with calcium alginate or cotton tips Swabs with wooden shafts
Required Specimen Volume	2-4 swabs or scab samples from lesions
Specimen Container	Screw-cap 15 mL polypropylene tube
Specimen Identification	Label container with patient’s first name, last name and DOB include date and time of collection and sample source.
Special Instructions	Swabs or scabs dry (no transport medium) in a 15 mL screw top tube.
Shipping Requirements	Ship swabs or scabs dry (no transport medium) room temperature. Ship according to current IATA regulations.
Sample Rejection Criteria	Incomplete specimen labeling / documentation Mislabeled/Unlabeled Specimen Inappropriate Transport Media (Frozen or Refrigerated) Specimens in transport medium Incorrect swabs
Turn-around-time	24-48 hours, Monday through Friday