JC Polyoma Virus DNA, PCR (CSF)

Test Code

CSFJC

Alias/See Also

JC Polyoma Virus DNA, Qualitative, Real-Time PCR, CSF

Quest Code
16441

CPT Codes
87798

Preferred Specimen

0.7 mL CSF collected in a sterile leakproof container

Minimum Volume

0.3 mL

Transport Temperature

Refrigerated

Specimen Stability

Room temperature: 48 hours
Refrigerated: 7 days
Frozen: 30 days

Methodology
Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR)

This test was developed and its performance characteristics have been determined by Quest Diagnostics. It has not been cleared or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The FDA has determined that such clearance or approval is not necessary. Performance characteristics refer to the analytical performance of the test.

Setup Schedule

Daily a.m.

Report Available

1 day

Clinical Significance

JC Polyoma Virus (JCV) is the cause of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), a demyelinating neurologic disease of immunosuppressed patients. This test detects JC Polyoma Virus DNA in CSF. Detection of the virus in specimens from AIDS and other severely immune compromised patients may indicate disease. Serum antibodies are not helpful in diagnosing PML as antibodies are common in the general population. JCV can also be detected in the urine of 3% of pregnant women, but is not associated with proven disease.

Performing Laboratory
Quest Diagnostics Nichols Institute
Chantilly, VA

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.