Human Herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8) by Quantitative PCR

Casandra

Casandra Test Code AR50852Version 1 (DRAFT)

Performing Lab

Lab ARUP LaboratoriesLab Test ID 2013089CPT Code 87799

Human Herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8) by Quantitative PCR

Also known as: HHV8 QNT

Clinical Use

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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

The test requires the specimen source to be indicated, and samples should be transported and stored according to temperature guidelines to maintain sample integrity. Results should be interpreted in the context of clinical findings, patient history, and other laboratory data. As no international standard is available for assay calibration, results from different assays may not be directly comparable.

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.

Test Details

New York Approved