Test Overview
Test Methodology

Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)

Test Usage

Useful for the detection of HSV encephalitis (differentiates HSV I from HSV II).

Reference Range *

No Herpes simplex virus DNA detected

* Reference ranges may change over time. Please refer to the original patient report when evaluating results.

Test Limitations

The result of this test should be correlated with serologic tests, patient symptoms, and clinical presentation. A single assay should not be the only criteria used to form a clinical conclusion. CSF obtained within 2-3 days after onset of HSV encephalitis symptoms can yield a false negative result and it is recommended that a repeat specimen be submitted if the clinical diagnosis strongly suggests this diagnosis.

Test Details
Days Set Up
Daily, specimen is set up within an hour of time received.
Analytic Time

3 hours

Soft Order Code
PCRHS
MiChart Code
HSV DNA by PCR, Qualitative, CSF
Synonyms
  • HSV DNA detection by PCR
  • HSV Encephalitis Detection by PCR
  • PCRHSV
  • HSV DNA AMPLIFICATION - PCR
  • HSV 1 DNA detection by PCR
  • HSV 2 DNA detection by PCR
  • Herpes simplex DNA by PCR, Qualitative, CSF
Laboratory
Microbiology
Section
Microbiology
Specimen Requirements
Collection Instructions

Collect spinal fluid. Freeze.

Normal Volume
1 mL CSF
Minimum Volume
0.3 mL CSF
Storage Temperature
Refrigerated acceptable, frozen perferred.
Rejection Criteria
Specimens received in polystyrene aliquot tubes are unacceptable and will be rejected. Specimen recieved in non-sterile tubes.
Additional Information

The HSV PCR uses the polymerase chain reaction to amplify Herpes Simplex Virus-specific DNA sequences directly from the patient's CSF. Results should be used in conjunction with other laboratory test results and the patient's clinical profile.

Billing
CPT Code
87529
Fee Code
32307
LOINC
32141-4