Human Herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8) by Quantitative PCR
Also known as: HHV8 QNT
Use
The Human Herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8) by Quantitative PCR test is used for the detection and quantification of Human Herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8), also known as Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV). This test assists in viral load monitoring, which is crucial for the management and treatment of conditions associated with HHV-8, including Kaposi's sarcoma, primary effusion lymphoma, and multicentric Castleman's disease. The test provides quantitative results that inform clinicians about the viral load in infected individuals, aiding in the assessment of disease progression and response to therapy.
Special Instructions
Not provided.
Limitations
The test has a quantitative range of 3.8-8.8 log copies/mL. A negative result does not completely rule out the presence of the virus, as PCR inhibitors may affect the detection, and viral loads below the detection threshold might go unnoticed. The absence of an international standard for calibration implies that caution should be taken when comparing results from different methodologies.
New York Approved
Methodology
PCR-based (qPCR)
Biomarkers
Human Herpesvirus 8
Microorganism
LOINC Codes
- 31208-2 - Specimen source
- 49404-7 - HHV8 DNA # SerPl NAA+probe
- 39083-1 - HHV8 Ab Ser Ql
Result Turnaround Time
2-5 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
Separate serum or plasma from cells. Transport in a sterile container.
Storage Instructions
Transport refrigerated.
Causes for Rejection
Heparinized specimens, tissues in optimal cutting temperature compound.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 24 hours |
| Refrigerated | 1 week |
| Frozen | 1 year |
Other tests from different labs that may be relevant