HIV Viral Load by PCR, Plasma

HIV Viral Load by PCR

Order Code:	HIVQNTPCR
Order Form:	Microbiology/Molecular Pathology Infectious Disease Requisition

Specimen:

Plasma

Collection Medium:

	or		and
Pink top tube	or	Lavender top tube 3 mL (EDTA)	and	Lavender top tube 3 mL (EDTA)

Minimum:

6 mL whole blood or 3 mL plasma. Testing requires a dedicated collection tube. If also testing for HCV RNA or Genotype, collect a second Pink top tube (6 mL whole blood or 3 mL plasma).

Testing Schedule:

Availability: once per week

Comments:

Record draw time. Testing only approved for viral load testing to monitor therapy. Not for diagnostic testing.

Methodology:

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)

Instructions:

Specimen submitted for this procedure cannot be used for other testing. Must be received with 24 hours of collection. If long term storage is needed: Centrifuge for 20 minutes at 800-1600 x g. Aseptically enter the tube and aliquot into sterile RNase free tubes. Store at 2-8 degrees C for 72 hours or -20 to -80°C long term.

Sample Processing:

Within 6 hours of collection, centrifuge at 800-1600 x g for 10 minutes.
Transfer plasma aseptically into a RNase, DNase free container.
Label transport tube with two patient identifiers, date and time of collection.
Maintain sterility and forward promptly to lab.
Specimen should be collected and packaged as close to shipping time as possible.

Sample Storage:

Refrigerate.
See "Instructions:" above for special storage requirements.

Transport Instructions:

Place coolant packs into styrofoam container.
Place requisition into outside pocket of bag.
DO NOT FREEZE, protect specimen by wrapping in bubble-wrap or toweling.
Recommend express mail or equivalent if not on courier service.

CPT Code:

87536