Cytomegalovirus Rapid Culture
Also known as: V CMVC
Use
The Cytomegalovirus Rapid Culture test is used to aid in the diagnosis of active cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection. While molecular testing methods are generally preferred for detecting CMV, this test provides a culture-based method that may assist in clinical assessment, especially in cases where CMV infection is suspected. It serves as a useful tool for identifying active infections in various specimen types including blood, fluid, swabs, and tissue.
Special Instructions
Specimens should be placed in viral transport media for swabs or tissue. Blood should be collected using lavender (EDTA) or pink (K2EDTA) tubes. Each specimen type requires proper storage and transport, with preference for refrigerated conditions. The specimen source is preferred at the point of collection.
Limitations
This test may not be as sensitive as molecular methods such as PCR, particularly for detecting CMV viremia and central nervous system infections, notably in immunocompromised patients. Rejection criteria include CSF, rectal swabs, stool, whole blood in viral transport media, and inappropriate swab types, which may compromise accuracy.
New York Approved
Methodology
Cell-based / Cytometry
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 5838-8
Result Turnaround Time
1-5 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Whole Blood
Volume
5 mL
Minimum Volume
1 mL
Container
Lavender (EDTA) or pink (K2EDTA) tube
Collection Instructions
Transport whole blood in specified tubes. Specimen source preferred.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerated
Causes for Rejection
CSF, rectal swab, stool, whole blood in viral transport media.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 2 hours |
| Refrigerated | 72 hours |
| Frozen | Unacceptable |