Test Overview
Test Methodology

Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR)

Test Usage

Detection of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV).

Reference Range *

Negative

Test Limitations

A negative test does not rule out infection. The specimen must be taken at the appropriate time during infection and properly stored and transported; if optimum conditions are not met, the viral agents may not be detected in the presence of an infection.

Test Details
Days Set Up
Daily
Analytic Time

1 day (6 hours for UM inpatients and ED)

Soft Order Code
PCRRV
MiChart Code
Resp Syncytial Virus by PCR
Synonyms
  • RESP. SYNCYTIAL VIRUS; PCR
  • PCRRV
  • RSV by PCR
Laboratory
Microbiology
Section
Virology
Specimen Requirements
Collection

SWAB: Use flocked swab, dacron or rayon swab to obtain specimen and place into M4-RT transport medium. Refrigerate. BAL FLUID: Place in sterile cup and refrigerate. M6-RT or UTM transport media is also acceptable. Deliver all specimen types to the laboratory as soon as possible. The possibility for virus isolation decreases as the length of storage time increases. Many viral agents will survive at room temperature for several hours; however, for optimum recovery of viruses, please refrigerate; do not freeze.

Alternate Specimen
M6-RT (Remel M6) or UTM (BD Universal Transport Medium) transport media is acceptable.
Normal Volume
1 nasopharyngeal swab
Storage Temperature
Refrigerate 2-8 C
Additional Information

Specimen will be held for a minimum of 2 weeks to allow additional testing to be added as needed.

Billing
CPT Code
87634
Fee Code
SA005
NY State Approved
No