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herpes simplex virus (hsv1&2) and VARICELLA ZOSTER (VZV) DIRECT Detection test: (088-0073, 088-0523 and 088-5002)
Clinical Indication:

Rapid diagnosis of HSV 1, HSV 2 and VZV from skin lesions
Test Mnemonic:

 V HVD
Methodology:

Microscopic examination of slides labeled with Fluorescence Antibody detection for HSV1, HSV2 and VZV
Performed:

 Clinical Microbiology
Turnaround Time:

 Test is performed Monday through Friday
Specimen Requirements: Patient Preparation: Skin lesion, cleanse skin around lesion to reduce contamination

Collect:  Collection fluid and scrapings from the base of the lesion, obtaining epithelial cells for examination. Inoculate viral transport media with the swab.

Specimen Preparation: Use Viral transport medium (VTM). Place Viral transport medium tube on ice.

Storage/Transport: Place VTM on ice and transport to lab.

Stability: 24 hours if on ice

Causes for Rejection: Improper collection, wooden swab, delayed transport, transported at room temperature. Specimen container unlabeled or labeled incorrectly. No date and time of collection on requisition form.
Clinical Information:

It is recommended to follow up a negative direct result with a virus culture for completeness.
Reference Range:

Not detected
Note:

Viral Transport Media is available from Microbiology Lab Room 5.137 McCullough. 

CPT 4 Code:

 87273, 87274, 87290
Review 2/13/2013 by T. Friloux

When ordering tests for which Medicare or Medicaid reimbursement will be sought, physicians should only order tests that are medically necessary for the diagnosis or treatment of the patient.  Components of the organ or disease panels may be ordered individually.  The diagnostic information must substantiate all tests ordered and must be in the form of an ICD-9 code or its verbal equivalent.

 

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