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 human papillomavirus (HPV) RNA. Papillomaviruses are the cause of warts, including genital warts, and are also associated with cases of laryngeal papillomatosis. Certain HPV types are oncogenic and associated with several cancers, including cervical cancer.
HPV PCR testing is performed separately as part of the national cervical screening programme. Warts are normally diagnosed clinically, but where there is diagnostic uncertainty HPV PCR can be used. Where malignant change is suspected this is better investigated by biopsy and immunohistochemistry.
Specimen container paediatric:
Lesion swabs in viral transport media, biopsy in sterile Universal.
Specimen container adult:
Lesion swabs in viral transport media, biopsy in sterile Universal.
Minimum volume paediatric:
1 Swab/biopsy from site
Minimum volume adult:
1 Swab/biopsy from site
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 S 6)
Other Info:
Sample referred to Micropathology