Synonym(s): |
Zika Real-Time RT-PCR, Chikungunya Real-Time RT-PCR, Dengue Real-Time RT-PCR |
Requisition Form |
G2-V |
Test Description |
Testing of specimens to detect the presence of chikungunya, dengue, and/or Zika RNA in patients who meet epidemiological criteria for testing |
Pre-Approval Needed |
Contact your local or state epidemiologist if chikungunya, dengue or Zika virus are suspected. Contact information can be found at the following link https://www.dshs.texas.gov/idps-investigation-forms/disease-reporting-contacts. |
Supplemental Information Required |
- Date of onset
- Symptoms
- Travel history
- Pregnancy status
|
Supplemental Form(s) |
Chikungunya, Dengue, and Zika testing and Supplemental Information Form. |
Performed on Specimens from (sources) |
Human |
Sample/Specimen Type for Testing |
- Separated serum (aliquot)
- Whole blood w/EDTA
- CSF
- Urine (aliquot, please do not send urine cups) and amniotic fluid are also acceptable for Zika Testing ONLY.
NOTE: Serum is the preferred diagnostic specimen. Whole blood (EDTA), CSF, urine and amniotic fluid may only be tested alongside a patient-matched serum specimen. |
Minimum Volume/Size Required |
3-5 mL |
Storage/Preservation Prior to Shipping |
- Refrigerate at 2-8°C, or freeze at -70°C or below.
- Serum should be poured over in a separate tube.
|
Transport Medium |
EDTA for whole blood |
Specimen Labeling |
- Two patient-specific identifiers required (e.g., patient full name, date of birth, Medical record number).
- Identifiers on specimen must exactly match submission form.
|
Shipping and Specimen Handling Requirements |
Ship samples:
- According to Dangerous Good Regulations, IATA, and/or CFR 49.
- Handling as infectious agent using universal precautions.
- Triple-contained in accordance with federal shipping regulations for infectious agents.
- If specimens will arrive at the lab within 48 hours of collection, refrigerate at 2-8 ̊C and ship overnight on cold packs.
- If specimens will arrive at the lab more than 48 hours after time of collection, freeze at -20 ̊C or below and ship overnight on dry ice.
- Whole blood (EDTA) should be shipped on cold packs and received cold.
|
Method |
Real-time RT-PCR
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Turn-around Time |
5 business days following approval for testing
|
Interferences/Limitations |
- False negative may result if specimen is improperly collected, transported, or handled.
- Detection of viral RNA does not imply that the corresponding virus is infectious or is the causative agent for clinical symptoms.
- A negative result does not preclude infection.
|
Common Causes for Rejection |
- Information on the form and tube do not match.
- Failure to put two forms of identification on tube.
- Specimen received cold greater than 48 hours after collection.
- Specimen received ambient.
- Incorrect specimen type.
- Specimen does not meet epidemiological criteria for testing.
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Additional Information |
Visit www.texaszika.org/labs.htm for more information. |