Powassan Virus, RNA, Molecular Detection, PCR, Blood
Use
Rapid testing for Powassan virus RNA (lineage 1 and lineage 2) using whole blood specimens. An adjunctive test to serology for detection of early Powassan virus infection (i.e., first few days after symptom onset). This assay should not be used for screening asymptomatic individuals and should only be used to test patients with signs and symptoms of Powassan virus disease.
Special Instructions
Ordering guidance notes that Powassan virus PCR result may remain positive longer in urine than in blood, serum, and cerebrospinal fluid (7 days or more). Special instructions include the Acute Tickborne Disease Testing Algorithm and Meningitis/Encephalitis Panel Algorithm. If not ordering electronically, complete, print, and send a Microbiology Test Request (T244) with the specimen.
Limitations
The sensitivity of the assay is dependent upon the time of illness onset in which the specimen is collected. This PCR testing has greatest utility within the first few days of symptom onset. A negative result does not exclude infection. The assay detects both viable and nonviable virus. Test performance depends on viral load and may not correlate with cell culture.
New York Approved
Methodology
PCR-based (PCR)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 34456-4
- 34456-4
- 77202-0
Result Turnaround Time
0-5 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Whole Blood
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.3 mL
Container
Lavender top (EDTA)
Collection Instructions
Send whole blood specimen in original tube. Do not aliquot.
Causes for Rejection
All specimens will be evaluated at Mayo Clinic Laboratories for test suitability.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated | 7 days |
| Frozen | 7 days |