Pathology Handbook

Herpes Virus Multiplex PCR

Alternative Names:

HSV-1 PCR
HSV-2 PCR
CMV PCR (not viral load)
VZV PCR
Varicella Zoster PCR
Viral PCR for Herpes viruses
Swab for Herpes PCR
Adenovirus PCR
Enterovirus PCR

Laboratory:

Microbiology

Test Code:

Herpes Adenovirus Enterovirus PCR, HERPPCR

Specimen Types:

Swab
Tissue
Cerebrospinal Fluid
Plasma

Container Types:

See Under Collection Instructions
CSF Tube 3
EDTA 10 mL

Collection & Request Instructions:

For quantitative CMV PCR order CMV Viral Load.

A separate EDTA blood tube is essential. It cannot be used for other tests.

Use a blue capped elution swab (eSwab) for collection. These are purchased using eReq.

Guidelines for swab collection.

A sterile flocked swab is used to vigorously swab the base of the lesion— applying enough pressure to collect epithelial cells without causing bleeding—and collect vesicular fluid. It is important to collect infected epithelial cells from the base of the lesion because they usually contain a significant amount of virus.
Break off the swab in the amies transport medium accompanying the swab.

For investigation of CMV colitis, a colonic biopsy is recommended. For all other enquires, please contact the Microbiology Registrar.

Transport Instructions between Sites and/or Laboratories:

Room Temperature

Assay Frequency:

Weekdays

Additional Notes:

Viruses screened in this PCR are HSV-1, HSV-2, CMV, VZV, Enterovirus and Adenovirus.