Respiratory Syncytial Virus DFA

Casandra

Casandra Test Code AR35157Version 1 (DRAFT)

Performing Lab

Lab ARUP LaboratoriesLab Test ID 0060288CPT Code 87280

Respiratory Syncytial Virus DFA

Also known as: RSV

Clinical Use

Order Test

Use

This test is used for the rapid detection of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) primarily in children. RSV is a significant cause of respiratory infections, particularly bronchiolitis and pneumonia, in infants and young children. Early detection and diagnosis of RSV can help in the management and treatment of the infection, potentially reducing the severity of the disease and controlling its spread in institutional settings like daycares and hospitals. This test is less recommended for adults and inpatients, where a Respiratory Virus Mini Panel by PCR might provide better diagnostic sensitivity and specificity.

Special Instructions

Specimen source is preferred when submitting the specimen. It is also important to ensure that dry swabs or eSwabs are not used as they are unacceptable conditions for this test. The test is performed every day from Sunday to Saturday, and results are reported within 24 hours after testing. The test has high sensitivity (85-95%) and specificity (95-99%), making it a reliable option for RSV detection.

Limitations

This test is specifically designed for rapid detection of RSV in respiratory specimens such as nasopharyngeal aspirates, swabs, or washings, and tracheal aspirate. The limitations of this test include its inability to use dry swabs or eSwabs for sample acquisition, as they are considered unacceptable conditions. Additionally, since the test is less recommended for adults and inpatients, its effectiveness outside the target demographic (mainly children) may be limited, and alternative methods like the Respiratory Virus Mini Panel by PCR are advised for older patients.

Test Details

FDA Approved