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HelpTest Code LAB946 Herpes Simplex Virus Culture
Processing Instructions
Swab specimens in viral transport medium. 3.0 mL (1.0 mL minimum).
Biopsy/tissue specimens in saline or viral transport medium (Snap frozen -20°C).
Stability
Swab:
Room temperature: 4 hours
Refrigerated: 7 days
Frozen: Do Not Freeze (except tissue specimens)
Tissue and Biopsy:
Room temperature: 4 hours
Refrigerated: Unacceptable
Frozen (-20°C): 30 days
Frozen (-70°C): 3 months
Performed Test Frequency
Monday thru Saturday
CPT(s)
87252, plus 87253 if isolated, at additional cost
Methodology
Standard tube culture with monoclonal antibody staining of CPE-positive cultures. This method can isolate and differentiate herpes type 1 and herpes type 2. Other viruses in the specimen will not be identified.
Acceptable Collection Tube(s)
Variable specimen types
Specimen Volume
1.0 mL
Rejection Criteria
The following specimen types will not be tested: CSF or body fluids; CNS tissue; Urine; Stool;
Whole blood, plasma, or serum; Specimens in proprietary PCR transport media; Specimens in
bacterial transport media, Stewart medium (Culturette), gel, or charcoal transports; Specimens in bacteriological blood culture media; Dry swabs, wooden swabs, calcium alginate swabs; Tissues
received in transport media that has not been frozen (-20°C); Frozen specimens (except tissues);
Specimens received in non-sterile or leaking containers.
Turnaround Time
Up to 5 days
Performing Location
Warde Medical Laboratory, Ann Arbor, MI.