Turnaround times
The quoted turnaround time is from sample receipt in the laboratory, to results authorisation in the Laboratory Information Management system. The times do not include transport of specimen to the laboratory or the administrative process to print and post/email reports. Service users must allow for transport and reporting time when ordering tests.
Clinical background:
This is a PCR assay used to detect Hepatitis E virus (HEV) RNA. HEV is a cause of self-limited acute hepatitis. In immunosuppressed patients it can become chronic and require treatment. It is endemic in the UK where it is thought to be acquired from undercooked pork products. Other HEV genotypes can be acquired in association with travel.
In immunocompetent patients the diagnostic screening test used is an antibody test (see HEV IgM). This may be negative in the immunocompromised. HEV PCR It is used to confirm HEV IgM positive results and as first line screening (and monitoring of infection) in the immunocompromised.
Specimen container paediatric:
EDTA blood, serum/plasma.
Specimen container adult:
EDTA blood, serum/plasma.
Minimum volume paediatric:
1ml EDTA/serum/plasma
Minimum volume adult:
5ml EDTA, 1ml serum/plasma
Special requirements:
Send to laboratory as quickly as possible. If delays likely, refrigerate at 2-8 deg C.
Sample Stability:
Stable for up to 24 hrs.
Transport requirements:
Standard
Add On Test:
Possible up to 1 week.
Quality Assurance:
Sample referred to Reference Laboratory.
Interpretation:
Interpretative comments are added to reports where applicable
Reference Ranges:
None available
Factors Affecting Result:
If delays likely, refrigerate at 2-8 deg C
Referenced Documents:
Standards of Microbiology Investigations (SMI V 53)
Other Info:
Sample referred to Micropathology