Specimen:

Vesicular

Collection Medium:

Minimum:

Transport media available from Hospital Stores (923740)

Testing
Schedule:

0700-1630, 7 days a week, including holidays.

Analytic Time:

24 hours (upon receipt in laboratory)

Comments:

See "Viral Cultures" for collection guidelines.  Test is run daily.  
Culture will be ordered to confirm negative direct smears.

Methodology:

Direct Immunofluorescence Assay (DFA)

Sample
Processing:

Indicate specimen/fluid type on requisition.
Maintain sterility and forward promptly to lab.
Specimen should be collected and packaged as close to shipping time as 
possible.
Specimen source is required on requisition for processing.

Sample
Storage:

Refrigerate.

Transport
Instructions:

Coolant packs up to 8 hours.
Place coolant packs into styrofoam container.
Place requisition into outside pocket of bag.
Recommend express mail or equivalent if not on courier service.

CPT Code:

87274

See also:
Viral Culture