Ordering Guidance

If herpes simplex virus (HSV) is suspected in blood, order HSVPB / Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV), Molecular Detection, PCR, Blood.

If HSV is suspected in cerebrospinal fluid, order HSVC / Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV), Molecular Detection, PCR, Spinal Fluid.

If varicella-zoster virus is suspected, order VZVPV / Varicella-Zoster Virus, Molecular Detection, PCR, Varies.

Necessary Information

Specimen source is required.

Specimen Required

Submit only 1 of the following specimens:

Specimen Type: Body fluid

Sources: Pleural, peritoneal, ascites, pericardial, amniotic, or ocular

Container/Tube: Sterile container

Specimen Volume: 0.5 mL

Collection Instructions: Do not centrifuge.

Specimen Type: Swab

Sources: Genital, dermal, ocular, nasal, throat, or oral

Supplies: M4-RT (T605)

Container/Tube: Multimicrobe media (M4-RT)

Specimen Volume: Entire collection

Collection Instructions: Place swab back into multimicrobe media (M4-RT)

Additional Information: Source information must include main anatomical site of collection.

Specimen Type:Respiratory

Sources: Bronchial washing, bronchoalveolar lavage, nasopharyngeal aspirate or washing, sputum, or tracheal aspirate

Container/Tube: Sterile container

Specimen Volume: 1.5 mL

Specimen Type: Tissue

Sources: Brain, colon, kidney, liver, lung, etc

Supplies: M4-RT (T605)

Container/Tube: Sterile container containing 1 mL to 2 mL of sterile saline or multimicrobe medium (M4-RT)

Specimen Volume: Entire collection

Collection Instructions: Submit only fresh tissue.

Additional Information: Source information should include main anatomical site of collection.

Specimen Type: Urine (<1-month old infant)

Container/Tube: Sterile container

Specimen Volume: 0.5 mL