CMV Quant PCR for Eye Fluids

The detection and quantitation of CMV by real-time PCR. The PCR detects amplicons of the immediate-early (IE) viral protein 1 (IE1, UL123) and Glycoprotein B (gB, UL55) coding regions. Quantitation of CMV DNA (IU/mL) is achieved by amplifying a standard curve at the same efficiency, consisting of serial dilutions of a known amount of DNA containing the CMV amplicons. Results are reported in International Units per milliliter (IU/mL). The minimum virus level that gives a positive result in 95% of replicates is 300 IU/mL (2.48 log IU/mL).

This test was developed and its performance characteristics determined by the University of Washington Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology. It has not been cleared or approved by the US Food and Drug Administration.

For Blood, CSF or Clear non-cellular fluid (e.g. BAL or Washing) and Swab see CMV Quantitative by PCR [CMVQN].

For Tissue Biopsy, Bone Marrow, or Cellular fluid (e.g. Washing), see CMV Qualitative by PCR, Tissue/Cells [CMVQLT].

For Dried Blood Spot, see CMV Quant by PCR, Blood Spots [CMVBSQ].

Eye Fluid: 50 µL in sterile container.

Unacceptable Samples: Do not send syringe with needle. Only send syringe or transfer fluid to sterile container.

Note: Separate specimens MUST be submitted when both Viral Culture/Serology and PCR testing are ordered.

Eye Fluid: Freeze at -10°C or colder and ship on dry ice. If freezer and/or dry ice is not available, ship immediately at 2-8°C (ice pack). Sample may be stored at 2-8°C (ice pack) for up to 48 hours of collection. Samples stored at 2-8°C greater than 48 hours old may be rejected. Do not freeze/thaw.

Outside Laboratories: Freeze at -10°C or colder and ship on dry ice. If freezer and/or dry ice is not available, ship immediately at 2-8°C (ice pack). Sample may be stored at 2-8°C (ice pack) for up to 48 hours of collection. Shipment time must not exceed 48 hours from collection if stored at 2-8°C. Samples stored at 2-8°C greater than 48 hours old may be rejected. Do not freeze/thaw.