HIV-1 RNA, Quantitative, Real-Time PCR, CSF

Test Code

16186

CPT Codes
87536

Preferred Specimen

3 mL frozen CSF

Minimum Volume

1.1 mL

Instructions

Collect at least 3 mL CSF in a sterile screw-capped container. Do not use heparin tube for collection as heparin inhibits PCR. Ship CSF frozen.

Transport Container

Sterile leak-proof container

Transport Temperature

Frozen

Specimen Stability

Room temperature: 24 hours
Refrigerated: 5 days
Frozen: 35 days

Methodology
Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction

FDA Status
This test was developed and its analytical performance characteristics have been determined by Quest Diagnostics Infectious Disease. It has not been cleared or approved by FDA. This assay has been validated pursuant to the CLIA regulations and is used for clinical purposes.

Setup Schedule

Set up: Mon-Sat; Report available: 3-5 days

Reference Range

HIV-1 RNA, QN PCR, CSF	Not Detected	Copies/mL
HIV-1 RNA, QN PCR, CSF	Not Detected	Log copies/mL

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.

Performing Laboratory

Quest Diagnostics Nichols Institute-San Juan Capistrano, CA

33608 Ortega Highway

San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675-2042

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.