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hepatitis C virus Rna real-time pcr: (138-7522)
Clinical Indication:

For the detection of Hepatitis C virus infection or to  monitor HCV viral loads in active infections
Test Mnemonic:

 HCV PCR
Methodology:

 Detection and quantification of Hepatitis C virus RNA by Real time PCR
Performed:

 Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory
Turnaround Time:

 3-10 days
Specimen Requirements: Patient Preparation: Routine venipuncture

Collect: One pearl color  (PPT) top Vacutainer; collect one tube for this test and do not combine with other test orders. Submit SST only when PPT tube is not available

Specimen Preparation: Sample must be processed within 6 hours of collection for optimal recovery of DNA. Plasma: separate from cells by centrifugation at 1,000 x g for 15 minutes. Separate and store frozen, after centrifugation.

Storage/Transport: Transport at room temperature or refrigerated temperature.

Stability: Separation must occur within 6 hours of collection, store frozen for up to  one month.

Causes for Rejection: Incomplete and/or incorrect sample identification, insufficient sample volume, incorrect blood collection tube (Vacutainer), gross hemolysis, clots, prolonged time to processing
Clinical Information:  
Reference Range: Reported as:

HCV Not Detected or

HCV Detected &<12 IU/mL (1.08 Log IU/mL) or

12IU/mL (1.08 Log IU/mL) to 10 8 IU/mL (8.00 Log IU/mL) or

>10 8 IU/mL (8.00 Log IU/mL)Not detected
Note:

Submit one PPT tube for each molecular assay requested due to volume needs for testing.

A result of "Not Detected" does not rule out the presence of PCR inhibitors in the patient specimen or hepatitis C virus RNA concentrations below the level of LOD. Care should be taken when interpreting any single viral load determination. The test is intended for use in conjunction with clinical presentation and other laboratory results.
CPT 4 Code:

 87522
Review 5/8/2013 T. Friloux and Dr. Dong

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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