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HelpTest Code LAB163 Varicella Zoster Antibody, IgM
Additional Codes
VZ IGM
Clinical System Name
Varicella Zoster Antibody, IgM
Synonyms
Chicken Pox IgM; Herpes Zoster IgM; Shingles; Varicella Antibody, IgM; Varicella zoster Antibody, IgM; VZV Antibody, IgM; VZV IgM
Sample Requirements
Specimen: Whole Blood
Container(s): Gold SST, Red, or Gold Microtainer
Preferred Vol: 2.0 mL
Minimum Vol: 0.4 mL
Processing Instructions
Reject due to: Gross hemolysis, grossly lipemic or grossly icteric
Spin: Y
Aliquot: Y
Temp: -20 C
Storage Location: Separate from cells within two hours of collection. Transfer 1.0 mL (Min: 0.2 mL) to a plastic aliquot tube affixed with large Epic label. Deliver specimen to the CPA -20 freezer, Send Outs rack.
Off-site Collection: Separate from cells within two hours of collection. Transfer 1.0 mL (Min: 0.2 mL) to a plastic aliquot tube affixed with large Epic label. Freeze at -20 C. Transport frozen.
Stability
| Specimen Type | Temperature | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Serum | Room Temp | 4 d |
| Refrigerated | 7 d | |
| Frozen | 30 d |
Availability
| STAT | Performed | TAT |
|---|---|---|
| N | T - Sa | 3 - 5 d |
Performing Laboratory
Quest Diagnostics Infectious Disease, Inc.
33608 Ortega Highway, Bldg B-West Wing
San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675-2042
Phone Number: (800) 642-4657
Department
Department: Send Outs
Phone Number: (206) 987-2563
CPT Codes
86787
Methodology
Method: Immunoassay (IA)
Analytical Volume: 0.2 mL Serum
Limitations: Other herpes viruses may cross react and produce high titers. Protection may be limited at low positive titers.
Reference Range
| VZV Ab (IgM) | ≤0.90 |
Interpretive criteria
| 0.00-0.90 | Negative |
| 0.91-1.09 | Equivocal |
| ≥1.10 | Positive |
Note: Results from any one IgM assay should not be used as a sole determinant of a current or recent infection. Because an IgM test can yield false positive results and low levels of IgM antibody may persist for more than 12 months post infection, reliance on a single test result could be misleading. If an acute infection is suspected, consider obtaining a new specimen and submit for both IgG and IgM testing in two or more weeks.
Send Out Instructions
| Reference Test Name: | Varicella-Zoster Virus Antibody (IgM) |
| Reference Lab Test Code: | 8683 |
| Instructions: | Send out Monday through Friday with the Quest courier. |