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Test Code VZVS Varicella Zoster, IgG, Serum

Methodology

Chemiluminescence immunoassay (CLIA)

Performing Laboratory

Munson Medical Center Laboratories

Specimen Requirements

Preparation of Patient: 

None

 

Specimen Type:

Serum

 

Container Type: 

Gold Top SST Gel & Clot Activator Tube

LIS Container Code = GL

 

Specimen Volume: 

0.5 mL of Serum minimum 200uL of Serum

 

Specimen Handling/Transport:

Separate serum from cells within 2 hours of collection

For shipping, specimens should be maintained at 2-8°C.

 

Specimen Stability/Storage:

5 days 2-8°C

Reference Values

Reference Ranges:  Negative

Critical Decision Level:   None

Result Interpretation:  The analyzer automatically calculates varicella-zoster virus IgG antibody results expressed as Index value and grades the results.  Cut-off index = 150

Index Value

Results

Interpretation

< 135.0 Index

Negative

Absence of detectable VZV IgG antibodies.  A negative result indicates no detectable VZV antibody but does not rule out acute infection.  If should be noted that the test usually scores negative in infected patients during the incubation period and the early stages of infection.  If exposure to varicella zoster virus is suspected, despite a negative finding, a second sample should be collected and tested no less than one to two weeks later.

≥ 135.0 Index

and

< 165.0 Index

Equivocal

The equivocal samples should be repeat tested.  In case the result remains in this range after repeat testing, a second sample should be collected.

≥ 165.0 Index

Positive

Presence of detectable VZV IgG antibodies.  A positive result generally indicates exposure to the pathogen or administration of specific immuno-globulins, but it is no indication of active infection or stage of disease.

 

Priority & Frequency

Non-Emergent

24 hours 7 days a week

Test Classification and CPT Coding

86787