Varicella Zoster Virus PCR

Message

For Specimen Integrity during Extreme Weather see the “Lockbox Usage in Extreme Weather” document at the top of this page.

Test Code

VZVPCB

Alias/See Also

34052

CPT Codes
87798

Preferred Specimen

CSF 1.0 mL CSF in sterile container instructions: CSF must be sent in original tube - don't put CSF into VTM. Store refrigerated after collection.
Non-CSF Rash or skin lesions sent in viral transport media. Must specify source of specimen

Instructions

Rash or skin lesions sent in Viral Transport Media. Must specify source of specimen.

CSF in Sterile Container. Instructions: CSF must be sent in original tube - DO NOT put CSF in Viral Transport Media.

Transport Container

Viral Transport Media or Sterile container

Transport Temperature

Refrigerated

Specimen Stability

Room Temperature = n/a
Refrigerated = 5 days
Frozen = 3 months

Reject Criteria (Eg, hemolysis? Lipemia? Thaw/Other?)

Frozen specimen thawed

Methodology
Real Time PCR

Setup Schedule

Sunday - Saturday
MD

Report Available

2 days

Clinical Significance

PCR is the method of choice in detection of VZV in CSF

Performing Laboratory
Compunet Clinical Laboratories, LLC
2308 Sandridge Drive
Moraine, OH 45439

Last Updated: November 23, 2021

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.