Enterovirus Qualitative PCR Assay

Label Mnemonic:	ENTEROQAL
Epic code:	LAB2240
Order form:	Microbiology/Molecular Infectious Disease Requisition
Supply order:	Supply Order Form
Billing:	Billing Policies
CPT code:	87498

Specimen(s):

Spinal Fluid (CSF)

Collection Medium:

CSF collection kit

Minimum:

0.5 mL

Testing Schedule:

24 hrs/day, 7 days a week, including holidays.

Turn Around Time:

3 hours (upon receipt in laboratory)

Reference Range:

Not detected

Comments:

The Xpert EV Assay is designed to detect enterovirus (EV) RNA (enterovirus genome 5' untranslated region between nucleotide 452 and 596) in CSF samples. The assay detects most enteroviruses, including echoviruses, coxsackie A viruses, and coxsackie B viruses. The assay does not distinguish between serotypes.

Results from the Xpert EV assay should be interpreted in conjunction with other laboratory and clinical data. Positive enterovirus PCR results do not rule out other causes of meningitis, including bacteria, mycobacteria, other viruses (herpes family viruses, arboviruses, mumps virus, etc) and fungi. Rare occurrences of simultaneous mixed bacterial- viral meningitis have been reported in the literature.

Methodology:

Real-time Reverse transcriptase PCR amplification; Xpert EV Test (Cepheid)

Sample Processing:

Do Not Centrifuge.
Maintain sterility and forward promptly to lab.

Transport Instructions:

Place requisition into outside pocket of bag.
Place specimen into zip-lock type bag, seal bag.
Place coolant packs into Styrofoam container.
Coolant packs up to 8 hours.