Varicella Zoster Virus

Brief Description

The research use only assay is intended for the qualitative detection of varicella-zoster virus (VZV) DNA by RT-PCR from clinical specimens. This assay may be used in conjunction with clinical observations and other diagnostic assays to determine infection with varicella-zoster virus (VZV) in specimens collected from patients presenting with pustular or vesicular rash illness.

Laboratory Unit

Molecular Biology

Methodology

RT-PCR

Specimen Collection

  • Vesicular scab:
    • Place the vesicle skin “roof” in a dry, sterile 1.5-2 ml screw-capped plastic vial with O-ring.
  • Vesicular fluid/lesion swabs:
    • Swab the base of the lesion or ocular site and place swab in a sterile screw capped plastic vial with O-ring

Storage/Transport

Consultation with district epidemiologist required.  

  • Vesicular scab should be stored frozen (-20°C or colder) and shipped with dry ice within 60 days of collection. Freezing is strongly recommended.
  • Vesicular scab can be maintained at refrigerated temperature (2-8°C) during transit for no more than seven days after collection.
  • Vesicular fluid/lesion swabs should be stored frozen (-20°C or colder) and shipped with dry ice within 60 days of collection. Freezing is strongly recommended.
  • Vesicular fluid/lesion swabs can be maintained at refrigerated temperature (2-8°C) during transit for no more than seven days after collection.
  • Download this pdf file. FRM-QA 4 Refrigeration Outfit Guide

Acceptable Specimen Type(s)

  • Vesicular scab
  • Vesicular fluid/lesion swab

Test Request

Possible Results

  • Detected
  • Not detected
  • Unsatisfactory
  • Inconclusive

Reference Range

Not detected

Unacceptable Conditions

  • Improper specimen labeling
  • Missing testing requisition.
  • Missing minimum of 2 patient identifiers.
  • Discrepancy between patient name on the specimen and requisition form.
  • Specimen damaged, broken, or leaked in transit.

Interfering Substances

N/A

Result Reported

1-3 business days

Turnaround times may be affected by the scale of the event.

Fees

No charge

LOINC/Order Codes

11483-5 (Order code: 421000)