| Test Description |
|
Test Name
|
Hepatitis C Virus PCR, qualitative |
|
Synonym(s)
|
HCV PCR, qualitative |
|
Description
|
Qualitative assay to detect low levels of Hepatitis C Virus by PCR. Detection limit: ≥ 50 IU/mL. |
|
Methodology
|
Reverse Transcriptase-Polymerase Chain Reaction followed by ELISA detection |
|
Performed
|
Weekly |
|
Turnaround Time
|
1-5 days |
|
Specimen Requirements
|
1 mL ACD plasma (EDTA acceptable) or 1 mL serum. Plasma is preferred. Specimens collected in heparin are unacceptable. Specimen must be spun within 3 hours of collection to remove plasma/serum from the cells. Specimen may be stored at 2-8°C for up to 5 days, -20°C for 72 hours or -80°C indefinitely. Send specimen frozen and on dry ice.
|
|
Rejection Criteria
|
Specimens collected in heparin. Plasma/serum left on cells >3 hours. |
|
CPT Code(s)
|
87521 |
|
Reference Range
|
See interpretive report. |
|
Contact
|
Molecular Diagnostics Lab (214) 645-7075
Customer Service (214) 645-7057 or Toll Free (877) 887-8136 |
