Norovirus PCR, Molecular Detection, Feces
Use
This test is useful for diagnosing gastrointestinal disease characterized by diarrhea or vomiting, which is caused by norovirus genogroups 1 and 2. It is particularly useful in cases where patients are immunocompromised or hospitalized, to aid in infection control and limit unnecessary antibiotic use. Testing of diarrheal stool using this method allows for rapid and sensitive detection and differentiation of norovirus G1 and G2 genogroups in clinical samples.
Special Instructions
This test should not be used as a test-of-cure, as norovirus can be detected in patients for weeks to months following symptom resolution. Ship specimens in a sealed plastic bag and at ambient temperature; specimens received at other temperatures will be rejected. Use a commercially available transport system specific for recovery of enteric pathogens, and ensure collection occurs within one hour of defecation into preservative.
Limitations
The test should not be used for test-of-cure purposes due to the possibility of detecting norovirus nucleic acid long after symptom resolution. A negative test result does not necessarily rule out infection, as viral RNA levels may be below the detection limit. The test results need to be considered within the context of the patient's clinical presentation and other findings. Visibly formed feces are not suitable for testing.
New York Approved
Methodology
PCR-based (RT-PCR)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 88701-8
- 54905-5
- 54906-3
Result Turnaround Time
2-5 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Stool
Volume
1 gram or 5 mL
Minimum Volume
Not provided
Container
Commercially available transport system with non-nutritive transport medium like Cary-Blair
Collection Instructions
Collect fresh feces and place in preservative within 1 hour of collection. Ensure the sample is diarrheal as solid feces are not suitable.
Causes for Rejection
Nonpreserved feces, transport media other than Cary-Blair, visibly formed feces
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 7 days |