Herpes simplex virus (HSV) PCR - tissue specimens
- LIS Mnemonic: HSVPCR
Collect
Tissue specimen in viral transport medium
Volume Required
N/A
Minimum Required
Punch biopsy size
Transport
Keep specimen at 4C
Processing
Biopsy tissue from specific organs, including lung, liver, and brain. If an extended delay in transport of specimens is anticipated, rapidly freeze the specimens to at least -60°C and transport to the laboratory on dry ice. Please consult the laboratory if necessary.
Unacceptable conditions
Tissue not in viral transport medium
Days Performed
Daily
Reported
Same day
Reflex Testing
N/A
CPT
87798
Methodology
Amplification and detection of HSV DNA polymerase gene using TaqMan real-time PCR technology. This test is performed pursuant to an agreement with Roche Molecular Systems, Inc.
Interpretation
If positive, results are reported as herpes simplex virus DNA detected.
Reference Values
Negative or no herpes simplex virus DNA detected
Remarks
Clinical Utility: PCR of CSF specimens is now considered the 'gold standard' for the detection of HSV in patients with HSV encephalitis or other HSV-related central nervous system diseases such as recurrent meningitis. PCR can also be used to accurately diagnose HSV infections of the skin and mucous membranes and for the diagnosis of HSV neonatal disease. For diagnosis of neonatal HSV infection, collect specimens from skin vesicles, conjunctiva, mouth or nasopharynx, urine, blood, stool or rectum, and CSF. Detection of HSV from any of these sites more than 48 hours after birth may indicate active viral replication and infection of the infant rather than colonization after intrapartum exposure.
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