Cytomegalovirus (CMV) PCR (Qualitative) - CSF specimen
- LIS Mnemonic: CMVPCR
Collect
CSF
Volume Required
1 ml of CSF
Minimum Required
0.5 ml of CSF
Transport
Keep specimen at 4C
Stability
N/A
Processing
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.
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: Cytomegalovirus (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. CMV is an important cause of encephalitis in patients with AIDS and congenitally-infected infants. However, it rarely causes encephalitis in immunocompetent individuals. Radiculomyelitis and peripheral neuritis can also occur with CMV infection of the central nervous system.
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