Mumps virus PCR

TEST DESCRIPTION

Laboratory-developed test for the detection of mumps virus by reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) in patients having rash-related and respiratory disease. Mumps is an acute disease characterized by fever and swelling and tenderness of one or salivary glands, called parotitis. 

Methodology

RT-PCR

Reference range

Negative

TEST FREQUENCY & RESULT AVAILABILITY

Performed daily. Results are typically available one business day after specimen receipt.

ACCEPTABLE SPECIMEN TYPES AND COLLECTION

• Preferred: Buccal swab in viral transport medium (VTM)
• Throat swab in VTM
• Detailed collection instructions appear below

SPECIMEN STORAGE

Store refrigerated (2°C–8°C/35.6°F–46.4°F) for up to 72 hours. If the specimen is to be held for >72 hours, it should be frozen at −70 °C.

SPECIMEN TRANSPORT

Shipping conditions should follow the temperature and time requirements outlined above.

REJECTION CRITERIA

• Specimen not stored refrigerated or frozen
• Holding time greater than 72 hours if not frozen
• Specimen container not labeled 
• Specimen container has leaked or is not sealed properly 

CODES

CPT: 87798
LOINC: 47532-7
Test code: 6170

TEST FEE

Refer to the current fee schedule.

DETAILED SPECIMEN COLLECTION INSTRUCTIONS

1. Collect a buccal swab sample as soon as mumps disease is suspected. RT-PCR has the greatest diagnostic sensitivity when samples collected at first contact with a suspected case.
   1. To obtain a buccal or oral swab specimen:
      1. Massage the parotid glands on each side of the face for 30 seconds.
      2. Next, swab the area around the parotid gland duct (between the cheek and gum from the upper to lower molars), while rotating the swab. Swab areas on both insides of the mouth.
      3. A Dacron or other synthetic swab is required. Cotton swabs, or wood shafted swabs are unacceptable since they may contain substances that are inhibitory to enzymes used in RT-PCR. 
   2. Place the swab in 2 to 3 ml of VTM. The swab shaft should be broken so that the swab is left in the tube of VTM.
2. Throat swab specimens are also acceptable but not preferred.
   1. To obtain a throat swab specimen, vigorously swab tonsillar areas.