Plasma

Pink top tube 6 mL (K2-EDTA)

One full pink top tube (EDTA). Note: If HCV Genotype is also requested, please obtain a second full pink top tube. Sample tube must remain sterile. HCV molecular testing cannot be added onto a previously opened Vacutainer^® tube. Testing requires a dedicated collection tube. All collection tubes need to be processed within six hours of collection.

Twice per week

1 week

Negative

Analytical range in log10 values:
  Log IU (15-100,000,000 IU/mL non-log transformed values)

Positive results less than 15 IU/mL will be reported as "POS <1.18 LOG 
IU", "POS <15 IU/mL" and negative results will be reported as "Not 
detected".

PCR amplification; Cobas HCV Test (Roche Diagnostics, Inc.)

Cannot use specimen for other testing.

Record draw time.

All collection tubes need to be processed within 24 hours of 
collection.  If specimens cannot reach the Microbiology laboratory at 
UIDL within the 24 hours, process as follows:

Centrifuge for 20 minutes at 800-1600 x g.  Aseptically enter the tube
and aliquot into sterile tubes.  Transport to the laboratory on ice 
within 24 hours.

Within 24 hours of collection, centrifuge at 800-1600 x g for 10 minutes.
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.

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

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 early AM overnight shipping or equivalent if not on courier service.

See Additional Information:
Conversion of Log Value to Integer Value Calculator