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| A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z # |
HIV-1 RNA, Quantitative, PCR with Reflex to Genotype
Test Code901267
CPT Codes
87536<br>Restricted Client Code
Includes
If HIV-1 RNA, Quantitative, Real-Time PCR viral load is ≥400 copies/mL, then HIV-1 Genotype will be performed at an additional charge (CPT code(s): 87900, 87901).
Preferred Specimen
2 mL plasma collected in each of two EDTA (lavender-top) tubes
Minimum Volume
1 mL
Other Acceptable Specimens
Plasma collected in each of two PPT Potassium EDTA (white-top) tubes
Instructions
Do not freeze whole blood or any samples stored in primary tube. Freshly drawn specimens (whole blood) may be stored at 2-25°C for up to 24 hours prior to centrifugation. Separate plasma from cells within 24 hours of collection by centrifugation. If shipping frozen, transfer plasma to a leakproof transport tube, then freeze prior to shipment. Follow manufacturer's instructions for collection tube handling.
Transport Container
Transport tube
Transport Temperature
Frozen
Specimen Stability
Room temperature: Unacceptable
Refrigerated: 6 days
Frozen: 42 days
Refrigerated: 6 days
Frozen: 42 days
Reject Criteria (Eg, hemolysis? Lipemia? Thaw/Other?)
Plasma received frozen in the plasma preparation tube • Serum • Whole blood greater than 24 hours old • Frozen whole blood • Samples collected in lithium or sodium heparin
Methodology
Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction
Setup Schedule
Set up: Mon-Sat; Report available 1-2 days (Additional 4-11 days if reflex testing required)
Limitations
An infection is often composed of a variety of strains of the virus. The test may identify only the predominant type of virus thus leaving the minority viruses to thrive once the predominant type is treated. Lack of resistance may not confer susceptibilities.
Reference Range
| HIV-1 RNA, QN, PCR | Not detected | copies/mL | ||
| HIV-1 RNA, QN, PCR | Not detected | Log copies/mL | ||
| HIV-1 Genotype | See Laboratory Report | |||
Clinical Significance
Measurement of HIV-1 plasma levels (viral load) provides a direct assessment of viremia and should be used in conjunction with CD4+ T-cell counts. HIV-1 RNA, quantitation is useful in patients to assess prognosis, monitor progression of HIV-1 infection, determine when to initiate therapy, and monitor the effectiveness of antiretroviral therapy.
