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 panel of tests for the detection by PCR of viruses in CSF. The panel consists of: Herpes Simplex virus types 1 and 2, Varicella zoster virus, enterovirus. If the patient is <3 years old then HHV6 and parechovirus are also included.
Specimen container paediatric:
CSF in sterile plain universal.
Specimen container adult:
CSF in sterile plain universal.
Minimum volume paediatric:
0.5ml
Minimum volume adult:
0.5ml
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 6 days
Quality assurance:
- UK National External Quality Assurance Scheme (UKNEQAS)
- External Quality Assurance Scheme: INSTAND
- External Quality Assurance Scheme: QCMD
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 43)
Other Info:
N/A