Enterovirus by PCR
Also known as: EV PCR
Use
The Enterovirus by PCR test detects the presence of enterovirus RNA in clinical specimens such as blood, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), or nasopharyngeal swabs. This test is useful for the diagnosis of enterovirus infections, which can cause a variety of illnesses ranging from mild respiratory infections to more serious conditions such as meningitis, encephalitis, and myocarditis. The test helps in the management and treatment of patients by confirming active enterovirus infections, enabling timely and appropriate therapeutic interventions.
Special Instructions
For optimal test performance, correct specimen collection and handling are critical. It is essential to transfer serum, plasma, or CSF to a sterile container, ensuring a minimum volume of 0.5 mL. Swab specimens must be placed in viral transport media. The specimen source must be specified to ensure the integrity of the testing process.
Limitations
The test is a qualitative assay and provides a positive or negative result for the presence of enterovirus RNA. A negative result does not rule out the presence of PCR inhibitors in the patient specimen or enterovirus RNA below the limit of detection. It is important to consider the clinical context and use other laboratory findings and patient history to make a comprehensive diagnosis. This test has not been cleared or approved by the US Food and Drug Administration but is developed and its performance characteristics determined by ARUP Laboratories.
Methodology
PCR-based (PCR)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 31208-2
- 29591-5
Result Turnaround Time
1-2 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Plasma
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Container
Sterile container
Collection Instructions
Transfer serum, plasma or CSF to a sterile container. Swab: Place in viral transport media (ARUP Supply #12884).
Causes for Rejection
Heparinized specimens.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 8 hours |
| Refrigerated | 48 hours |
| Frozen | 3 months |
