Herpes Simplex (HSV) and Varicella-Zoster Virus (VZV) Direct Iummunofluorescence

Test Code
18852

CPT Codes
87290, 87299

Preferred Specimen
3 mL swab collection from vesicular, oral, genital (external), or skin lesions submitted in VCM Transport Medium

Minimum Volume
1 mL

Other Acceptable Specimens
Swab collection from vesicular, oral, genital (external), or skin lesions submitted in UTM or M4 Transport Medium

Instructions
Oral includes: Lips, Mouth, Gums, Palate and Throat
Genital that includes: Labia, Vulva, Vagina, Perineum, Penile, and Anal

Transport Temperature
Refrigerated (cold packs)

Specimen Stability
Room temperature: Unacceptable
Refrigerated: 72 hours
Frozen (-70°C): 30 days

Reject Criteria (Eg, hemolysis? Lipemia? Thaw/Other?)
Dry swabs • Non-gel based bacterial transport • Formalin or other fixatives • Gel-based transport system • Nucleic acid transport systems • Calcium alginate swabs • Wooden swabs

Methodology
Direct Immunofluorescence Assay (DFA)

Setup Schedule
Set up: Mon-Fri p.m.; Report available: Next day

Reference Range
Negative

Clinical Significance
The DFA test methodology provides a rapid diagnostic procedure for the detection of HSV and VZV. This type of lab results, in conjunction with all the other information about the patient, can assist the physician in rendering a diagnosis. The rapid diagnosis of viral infections facilitates the appropriate selection of antiviral drug therapy.

Performing Laboratory
Quest Diagnostics Nichols Institute
14225 Newbrook Drive
Chantilly, VA 20153

The CPT Codes provided in this document are based on AMA guidelines and are for informational purposes only. CPT coding is the sole responsibility of the billing party. Please direct any questions regarding coding to the payor being billed. Any Profile/panel component may be ordered separately. Reflex tests are performed at an additional charge.