| (Microbiology) |
| Investigations | Varicella-Zoster Virus (VZV) Infection with Varicella Zoster Virus is common. Primary infection with the virus is the cause of chickenpox, which often occurs in childhood. The virus is also the causative agent of shingles which is due to localised reactivation of the virus. Rare complications include pneumonitis and pregnant women are at risk. In addition, infections in pregnant women who are less than 20 weeks gestation may pose a risk to the foetus of congenital varicella syndrome. Serology Tests VZV IgG Molecular Tests VZV PCR |
Inform lab before sending | No, except for URGENT SAMPLES. Contact the laboratory on 0151 706 4410 to request urgent testing. | Specimen type | Serology Tests Clotted blood:5ml Clot activator and separation gel (GOLD CAPPED) container Molecular Tests Swabs:Use the Sigma-Virocult swab (GREEN CAPPED) or REMEL swab (RED CAPPED) collection kits EDTA: 4ml blood into a EDTA (LAVENDER CAPPED) container CSF: Collect at least 0.2ml using the CSF sample collection kit if available. A sterile container is a suitable alternative. |
Ideal time to take specimen | Labelling requirements | click here | How to take the specimen | For investigation of vesicular skin lesions, rub the top off a vesicle with a sterile swab to absorb the vesicle fluid. If necessary, burst the vesicle with a sterile needle and absorb the vesicle fluid with the swab. |
Transport to the laboratory | If transport is delayed then store at +4°C | Test Times | Serology: Daily VZV PCR: Daily |
Turnround | Serology: 3 working days VZV PCR: 5 working days |
Additional information | Bacterial Transport Media(blue swabs),cannotbe processed by molecular diagnostic methods. |
| Additional Examination Requests | click here |