HSV-1&2 (Herpes Simplex Virus-1&2)DNA detection by real time PCR

DESCRIPTION – herpes simplex virus 1 & 2 are 2 species of human herpes viruses that replicate in the epithelial cells and fibroblasts, and spread to establish latent infection in sensory neurons

METHODOLOGY – polymerase chain reaction (PCR)

TURN AROUND TIME – 4 days

PATIENT PREPARATION –

COLLECT – lavender (EDTA) or pink (potassium EDTA) or serum separator tube or amniotic fluid or CSF or endo-cervical specimen

SPECIMEN PREPARATION – separate plasma or serum from cells and transfer 1 ml of serum or plasma or amniotic fluid or CSF

STORAGE/TRANSPORT TEMPERATURE – frozen

STABILITY - ambient: 8 hours; refrigerated: 72 hours; frozen: 3 months

UNACCEPTABLE CONDITIONS – heparinized specimens

MRP – 3500.00

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS – clinical history is mandatory