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HelpTest Code LAB13285 Norovirus Group 1 & 2 Detection by RT-PCR
Department
Send Outs
Reference Lab Test Number
NOPCR
Collection Requirements
Source required.
Send 1.0 mL stool refrigerated in a sterile IATA-approved screw-capped plastic container.
Alternate Specimen:
Stool in Cary Blair preservative. Swab specimens (rectal) in viral transport medium. Swabs in culturettes must be transferred to viral transport within 24 hours of collection.
Refer To
Primary Collection Container
Sterile Container
Alternate Collection Container
Cary-Blair Media
Transport
Refrigerated
Preferred Transport Temperature
Refrigerated
Stability
Ambient: 3 days
Refrigerated: 14 days
Frozen (-20°C): 14 days
Frozen (-70°C): 3 months
Minimum Testing Volume
0.5 mL
Reference Range
Not detected
Methodology
Reverse-Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction
Norovirus virus detection was performed by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification of a portion of the viral RNA polymerase gene and real-time detection using TaqMan detection probes. This method will detect genogroup 1 and genogroup 2 noroviruses. The analytical sensitivity of this assay is approximately 100 virus copies/assay. Positive results should be correlated with clinical presentation as Noroviruses are excreted in the stool for 2-3 weeks after clinical symptoms resolve. A negative result does not rule out infection.
Performed
Monday – Saturday
Reported
3-4 days
CPT Codes
87798 × 2
Unacceptable Conditions
Stool or rectal swabs preserved in formalin, SAF, or PVA.
Specimens received in non-sterile or leaking containers.
Stool specimens received on diapers, tisssue paper, tongue depressors, sticks or other objects. Emesis will not be tested.
Culturettes older than 24 hours.