Beginning today, July 2, 2013, PCR testing of amniotic fluid for CMV will be available as an in-house test.  It will require 1 mL of amniotic fluid in a sterile container and testing will be available Monday through Friday and by special request on weekends (page the Microbiology resident on call at pager 4903 weekdays; pager 3404 evenings and weekends, or contact the Microbiology laboratory at 356-2591).

Amniotic fluid will be an orderable option in Epic LAB7480, Cytomegalovirus (CMV) Qualitative by PCR.

This test is meant to assist in ruling out congenital CMV in cases where maternal infection is suspected and should not be routinely ordered on amniotic fluid if this diagnosis is not under consideration.  Correlation of positive and negative results with other PCR, serologic, and ultrasonographic testing is recommended.  Viral load has been shown to correlate with gestational age and false-negative PCR results are more likely earlier in pregnancy (especially before 21 weeks).  Repeat testing may be necessary.

Questions concerning this broadcast can be directed to Bradley Ford, MD, PhD, Associate Medical Director of Microbiology, (ext. 6-2990, bradley-ford-1@uiowa.edu).