Merkel Cell Carcinoma Antibodies
Also known as: MERK ABS
Use
Use this test to screen individuals with Merkel cell carcinoma for antibodies suggestive of current or prior infection with Merkel cell polyomavirus. It helps in the identification of oncoprotein antibodies that are present in the blood of patients when they have clinically detectable Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC). In patients who develop these antibodies, titers are expected to decrease significantly within three months of successful treatment of MCC.
Special Instructions
This test is not performed at ARUP Laboratories. Specimens for other tests should be collected separately. Reflex screening for the Merkel cell polyomavirus VP1 capsid antibody is done once, on the first specimen submitted, which incurs additional charges.
Limitations
This test should not be regarded as investigational or for research purposes. The test has not been cleared or approved by the US Food and Drug Administration. It should be noted that changes in oncoprotein titer of less than 25% may not be biologically significant. A significant rise in titer or stabilization of titer above 2000 STU may be associated with persistent or recurrent MCC.
Methodology
Immunoassay (Multiplex Bead Assay)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 18727-8
- 11502-2
- 51953-8
- 56850-1
- 62364-5
Result Turnaround Time
16-20 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
2 mL
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Container
ARUP standard transport tube
Collection Instructions
Collect in a plain red or serum separator tube (SST). Separate serum from cells ASAP or within 4 hours of collection and transfer to transport tube.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Unacceptable |
| Refrigerated | 1 week |
| Frozen | Indefinitely |