Varicella Zoster Virus NAAT

TEST DESCRIPTION

Nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT) for the detection of varicella zoster virus (VZV) in lesion swabs. This test uses isothermal helicase-dependent amplification in the presence of a target-specific fluorescence probe to detect and differentiate between Herpes Simplex Virus type 1 (HSV-1), HSV-2, and VZV.

Methodology

Helicase-dependent amplification

Reference range

Negative

TEST FREQUENCY & RESULT AVAILABILITY

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

ACCEPTABLE SPECIMEN TYPES AND COLLECTION

Swab of cutaneous or mucocutaneous lesion (e.g., genital lesion, oral lesion): sterile polyester swab placed in viral transport medium or universal transport medium.
Detailed collection instructions appear below

SPECIMEN STORAGE & TRANSPORT

Store and transport at refrigerated (2°C–8°C/35.6°F–46.4°F) or frozen temperatures (<–20°C/<–4°F) for up to 7 days.

REJECTION CRITERIA

Specimen not stored refrigerated or frozen
Holding time greater than 7 days
Specimen container not labeled
Specimen container has leaked or is not sealed properly
Swab specimens that are missing the swab, contain multiple swabs, or contain the wrong swab

CODES

CPT: 87798
LOINC: 33027-4
Test code: 6900

TEST FEE

Refer to the current fee schedule.

DETAILED SPECIMEN COLLECTION INSTRUCTIONS

Optimal specimen collection time is within the first 3 days after appearance of the vesicular lesion. Prior to specimen collection, patients should avoid topical treatments as these may reduce virus yield.

Swab affected area:
1. Vesicular Lesion: Use a sterile needle to unroof the top of the vesicle. Use a sterile polyester swab to vigorously swab the base of the lesion, applying enough pressure to collect epithelial cells without causing bleeding while also collecting vesicular fluid. It is important to collect epithelial cells from the base of the lesion because they usually contain a significant amount of virus.
2. Non-Vesicular Lesion: Pre-moisten a sterile polyester swab with saline. Collect cells from the base of the lesion.
Place swab into viral transport medium (VTM) or universal transport medium (UTM).
Place the collection tube inside the zippered portion of the biohazard specimen bag and seal tightly.
Fill out the requisition form completely. Fold it in half once (no staples please) and place it in the outer pocket of the biohazard specimen bag.
Transport to the laboratory after collection. Specimen is stable at refrigerated or frozen temperatures for 7 days.