Varicella Zoster Rapid PCR, Swab or CSF

The DiaSorin Simplexa™ Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV) Direct FDA approved assay is a rapid real-time PCR that enables the direct amplification, detection of VZV from both cutaneous and mucocutaneous swab specimens and CSF specimens. A well conserved region of the VZV DNA polymerase gene is targeted to identify VZV in the specimen. Results are reported as Detected or NOT detected and a semi-qualitative result is provided by reporting the PCR Cycle threshold (Ct) value for positive specimens.

For Blood or Clear non-cellular fluid (e.g. BAL or Washing) see Varicella Zoster Quantitative by PCR [VZVQN].

For Tissue Biopsy, Bone Marrow or Cellular fluid (e.g. BAL or Washing) see Varicella Zoster Qualitative by PCR, Tissue or Cells [VZVQLT].

For Eye Sample see VZV Quant PCR for Eye Fluids [VZVEYE] or Eye Fluid Viral PCR Quant Panel [EYEVQP].

Swab: Acceptable specimen types are cutaneous and mucocutaneous swabs stored in UTM, Remel M4, Remel M4RT, Remel M5, or Remel M6 transport media. Follow the manufacturers’ package inserts for collection media and acceptable swab types. Do not use calcium alginate swabs, as they may contain substances that inhibit PCR testing.

CSF: 1 mL in sterile container

Unacceptable samples: Calcium alginate swabs, they may contain substances that inhibit PCR testing.

Minimum sample requirement: 0.1 mL

Swabs: Transport specimens on ice, store at 2 to 8°C for up to 7 days post collection. If there is a greater than 7 days delay before testing of the specimen, store specimen at -60 to -85°C. Do not freeze/thaw.

CSF: If CSF has cellular material, centrifuge & aliquot clear CSF. Transport CSF on ice, store at 2 to 8°C for up to 7 days post collection. If there is a greater than 7 days delay before testing of the specimen, store specimen at -60 to -85°C. Do not freeze/thaw.

Outside Laboratory:

Ship samples on dry ice. If freezer and/or dry ice is not available, ship immediately at 2-8°C (ice pack). Shipment time must not exceed 7 days from collection. Sample may be stored at 2-8°C (ice pack) for up to 7 days of collection. Samples stored at 2-8°C greater than 7 days old may be rejected. Do not freeze/thaw.