Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), Immunoassay
Use
Evaluate lower respiratory tract infections in young children. Severe life-threatening infections due to respiratory syncytial virus can occur during the first few years. Acquired immunity is incomplete and reinfection can occur later.
Special Instructions
Submit one specimen per test requested, specifying the exact specimen source or origin, such as nasopharyngeal aspirate. Ensure to indicate a specific test number on the test request form.
Limitations
1. Negative results do not rule out the possibility of an RSV infection, and additional confirmatory testing through an alternative method is advised in cases with a high suspicion of RSV infection. 2. Freezing the sample may decrease the detection of the antigen. 3. Results should be interpreted in conjunction with clinical history, epidemiological data, and other available information to the clinician. 4. The test's performance has not been evaluated for individuals without respiratory infection symptoms. 5. Therapeutic anti-RSV monoclonal antibodies may affect the test outcome. 6. The test has not been validated for patients older than 20 years or for immunocompromised individuals.
Methodology
Immunoassay (ELISA)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 68966-1
- 68966-1
Result Turnaround Time
1-3 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Nasopharyngeal Swab
Volume
2 to 3 mL washes or 0.5 to 1 mL aspirates
Minimum Volume
Not provided
Container
Viral, Chlamydia, or Mycoplasma culture transport provided by LabCorp, or other appropriate transport medium; sterile leakproof container for washes or aspirates
Collection Instructions
Nasopharyngeal wash or aspirate using routine collection and transport procedure. Nasal swabs are not considered as sensitive for RSV detection. Avoid using collection containers with preservatives or transport that may contain interfering substances. Do not use calcium alginate swabs. Obtain sample during acute phase of illness when greatest amount of viral shedding occurs.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerate for 72 hours or freeze if held longer.
Causes for Rejection
Bacterial swab specimen; specimen received in grossly leaking transport container; dry specimen; specimen submitted in fixative or additives; specimen excessively bloody; specimen received in expired transport media or incorrect transport device; inappropriate specimen transport conditions; specimen received after prolonged delay in transport (usually more than 72 hours); wooden shaft swab or calcium alginate swab in transport device; unlabeled specimen or name discrepancy between specimen and request label