Cytomegalovirus (CMV) PCR (Qualitative) - stool specimen
- LIS Mnemonic: CMVPCR
Collect
Stool in a sterile, leak-proof container
Volume Required
2 to 4 ml of liquid stool; 2 to 4 grams of formed stool
Minimum Required
2 ml of liquid stool; 2 grams of formed stool
Transport
Keep specimen at 4C
Processing
The specimen of choice is stool. Rectal swabs are inferior to stool specimens for the detection of viruses and are discouraged. If it is necessary to collect a rectal swab, a sufficient quantity of fecal material (at least a pea-sized amount) should be obtained. If fecal material is not clearly visible on the swab, the specimen is most likely inadequate. Rectal swabs should be immediately placed in viral transport medium. 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
Swab specimens not received in viral transport medium or received in bacteriological transport medium are discouraged. DO NOT USE CALCIUM ALGINATE OR WOODEN SHAFT SWABS FOR COLLECTION OF SPECIMENS; ONLY USE DACRON OR RAYON TIPPED SWABS ON PLASTIC OR METAL SHAFTS.
Days Performed
Daily
Reported
Same day
Reflex Testing
N/A
CPT
87496
Methodology
Amplification and detection of CMV 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 cytomegalovirus DNA detected.
Reference Values
Negative or no cytomegalovirus DNA detected
Remarks
Clinical Utility: CMV infections are common and usually asymptomatic in otherwise healthy children and adults; however, the incidence and spectrum of disease in newborns and in immunocompromised hosts establish this virus as an important human pathogen. PCR of stool can be beneficial in support of a diagnosis of CMV colitis, gastritis, esophagitis, and other gastrointestinal tract manifestations. However, diagnosis of CMV gastrointestinal disease is best accomplished from tissue biopsy material.
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