CPT CODE(S):  87522

Test Order Mnemonic:  HCVQUANT

Applies To:  Measurement of HCV viral load to monitor treatment

Lab:  Molecular Diagnostic Laboratory

Request Form:  See Electronic Lab Requisition or Molecular Diagnostics Lab Requisition Form

Collection:  Routine Venipuncture

Storage Instructions:  Immediately after blood draw, separate plasma by centrifugation at 1000 x g for 15 minutes. After centrifugation, store specimens at -20 C or below. Deliver blood specimen to UTMB Sample Management Department within 48 hours of sample collection

Causes for Rejection:  Insufficient sample collection, incorrect blood collection tube, gross hemolysis

Availability:  Samples are received 24 hours per day at UTMB Sample Management, Room 5.136 McCullough. Samples may be delivered Monday-Friday, 7:00 AM - 4:00 PM to Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory, Room 5.190 John Sealy Annex.

Special Instructions:  Submit one PPT (White Top) tube. Do not combine collections; please submit separate PPT tube for this test

Specimen:  Plasma

Volume:  5 ml

Minimum Volume:  3 ml

Container:  PPT (White Top)

Reviewed  Oct. 2007 by J. Dong, MD, PhD