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HIV-1 RNA, Quantitative, Real-Time PCR, CSF
Test Code16186
CPT Codes
87536
Preferred Specimen
3 mL frozen CSF in a sterile leak-proof container
Minimum Volume
1.1 mL
Instructions
CSF: Collect at least 3 mL in a sterile screw-capped container (1.1 mL min). Do not use heparin tube for collection as heparin inhibits PCR. Ship CSF frozen.
Transport Temperature
Frozen
Specimen Stability
Room temperature: 24 hours
Refrigerated: 6 days
Frozen: 42 days
Refrigerated: 6 days
Frozen: 42 days
Reject Criteria (Eg, hemolysis? Lipemia? Thaw/Other?)
Specimen collected using heparin as anticoagulant • Leaking, uncapped or broken containers
Methodology
Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction
FDA Status
The analytical performance characteristics of this assay have been determined by Quest Diagnostics. The modifications have not been cleared or approved by the FDA. This assay has been validated pursuant to the CLIA regulations and is used for clinical purposes.
Setup Schedule
A.M. Sets up 6 days a week.
Clinical Significance
This test is intended for use in conjunction with clinical presentation and other laboratory markers of disease progress for the clinical management of HIV-1 infected patients. The test can be used to assess patient prognosis by measuring the baseline HIV-1 RNA level or to monitor the effects of antiretroviral therapy by measuring changes in EDTA plasma HIV-1 RNA levels during the course of anti-retroviral treatment.
