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Test Name:
Varicella-Zoster Virus and Herpes Simplex Virus, by DFA, with VZV Culture and HSV Culture if Indicated


  • SBMF No:
    44581
  • Performance Lab Name:
    ARUP Laboratories
  • Test Mnemonic:
    VZV HSVFAC
  • ABN:
    Not required
  • CPT Code:
    87273; 87274; 87290
    If indicated, add 87252x2; 87253; 87254
  • LOINC Code:
    5846-1; 31208-2; 5882-6; 5849-5
  • Ref Lab Test No:
    0060283
  • Also Known As:
    Chicken Pox
    Herpes Zoster Antigen Detection and Culture
    Shingles
    VZV Antigen Detection and Culture
  • Also See:
    36004 Herpes Simplex Virus, Type 1 and 2, by RT-PCR
    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, or wood swabs
    Room temperature or frozen 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

    Note:
    If DFA is negative or inadequate, then a VZV/HSV 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 and HSV infections. Refer to Varicella-Zoster Virus by PCR (44516) and Herpes Simplex Virus, Type 1 and 2, by RT-PCR (36004).
  • Day Run:
    Sun-Sat (daily)
  • Time Reported:
    1-2 days
  • Test Type:
    INFECTIOUS ORGANISM