SBMF Online Payment ▶

test directorySearch Results

Click here to search again.

Test Name:
Varicella-Zoster Virus, by DFA, with VZV Culture if Indicated


  • SBMF No:
    44088
  • Performance Lab Name:
    ARUP Laboratories
  • Test Mnemonic:
    VZVFAC
  • ABN:
    Not required
  • CPT Code:
    87290
    If indicated, add 87252; 87254
  • LOINC Code:
    5882-6
  • Ref Lab Test No:
    0060282
  • Also Known As:
    Chicken Pox Virus
    Herpes Zoster
    Human Herpesvirus 3 (HHV-3)
    Shingles
    VZV DFA
  • Also See:
    44516 Varicella-Zoster Virus, by PCR
  • Spec Type:
    Vesicle fluid/swab (first three days of rash), tissue, or skin scrapings
  • Spec Container:
    Viral transport media (Microtest M4 or UTM)
  • Spec Collect:
    Swab, fluid, tissue, or skin scrapings collected in viral transport media
    Sample source is required on container and requisition
  • Spec Process:
    Immediately place specimen in viral transport media and refrigerate
  • Spec Store Transport:
    Refrigerated
    Submit specimen according to Biological Substance, Category B, shipping guidelines
  • Spec Stability:
    Room temperature (20-30°C): Unacceptable
    2 days refrigerated (2-8°C)
    Frozen (-20°C): Unacceptable
  • Spec Reject:
    CSF, whole blood, or bone marrow
    Dry swabs, calcium alginate swabs, and wood swabs
    Frozen or room temperature sample
  • Spec Remarks:
    Do not freeze
    Transfer sample ASAP after collection
    Extremely temperature sensitive
  • Methodology:
    Direct Fluorescent Antibody Stain (DFA)
  • Clinical Significance:
    Refer to:
    ARUP Consult | The Physician's Guide to Laboratory Test Selection and Interpretation
  • Reference Range:

    Negative

    Interpretive Data:
    Approximately 20% of samples submitted for VZV are positive for herpes simplex virus. Testing for herpes simplex virus is NOT included in this test.

    Note:
    If DFA is negative or inadequate, then a VZV culture will be added. Additional charges apply.

    Sensitivity of DFA methodology is dependent upon adequacy of the specimen. If specimen contains fewer than 20 cells, then the DFA result will be reported as "inadequate."

  • Additional Test Info:
    PCR is the most sensitive and rapid method for detection of VZV infection. Refer to Varicella-Zoster Virus by PCR (44516).
  • Day Run:
    Sun-Sat (daily)
  • Time Reported:
    DFA: 1-2 days; Culture: 4-6 days
  • Test Type:
    INFECTIOUS ORGANISM

Home > Test Directory > Search Results

Test Directory