Cytomegalovirus (CMV) DNA Detection and Quantification by Real-Time PCR, Plasma
Use
This test is used for the detection and quantification of cytomegalovirus (CMV) viremia. It is crucial for monitoring the progression of CMV disease and the patient's response to antiviral therapy. CMV is a significant cause of opportunistic infections in organ transplant recipients, leading to substantial morbidity and mortality. The test helps in determining when to initiate preemptive antiviral therapy and diagnose active CMV disease.
Special Instructions
The specimen must be shipped frozen on dry ice. If there is a delay of more than 24 hours, the plasma should be frozen at -20 to -80 degrees Celsius for up to 84 days and shipped on dry ice.
Limitations
Limitations include potential discrepancies in viral load results, where this assay may show higher results compared to previous tests due to sensitivity differences. Variants within the CMV DNA polymerase gene could affect primer or probe binding, affecting quantitation or detection. The assay uses redundant target sequence amplification primers to mitigate this risk.
FDA ApprovedNew York Approved
Methodology
PCR-based (RT-PCR)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 72493-0
- 72493-0
Result Turnaround Time
1-5 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Plasma
Volume
1.5 mL
Minimum Volume
0.6 mL
Container
Plastic vial
Collection Instructions
Centrifuge blood collection tube and aliquot plasma into a plastic vial per manufacturer's instructions, ideally within 2 hours for BD Vacutainer tubes. Freeze aliquoted plasma for shipment.
Storage Instructions
Ship specimen frozen on dry ice; if delayed, freeze at -20 to -80 degrees C for up to 84 days and ship on dry ice.
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated | 6 days |
| Frozen | 84 days |