Specimen:

Vesicular

Collection Medium:

Minimum:

Straight regular flocked swab kit with viral transport media available 
from Hospital Stores (33625)

Testing
Schedule:

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

Analytic Time:

24 hours (upon receipt in laboratory)

Comments:

Expose the base of the lesion by lifting the cap of the vesicle r 
ulcer.  Using swab from Regular flocked swab collection kit (33625), 
swab the entire base of the lesion firmly to collect cellular material 
(without causing bleeding).  Place swab in viral transport media.

Methodology:

Direct Fluorescent Antibody(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