Varicella Zoster

If certain criteria are met, CSF can be tested for VZV using the BioFire FilmArray® multiplex PCR - see Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF)

Sample type

VZV IgG:

• Serum

Note: VZV IgM not available: to diagnose acute infection please send a vesicle or surface swab as below

VZV PCR:

• Vesicle swab
  
• Eye swab
  
• Plasma (has not been verified by the laboratory)

Specimen requirements

VZV IgG:

Blood in SST gold top tube

VZV PCR:

• Swabs should be sent in universal transport medium (red or green top)
  
• Blood in EDTA

Minimum volume

VZV IgG - 0.5ml

VZV PCR - 0.5ml

Frequency of test

VZV IgG - daily (Monday to Saturday)

VZV PCR (not CSF) - at least twice per week (Monday to Friday)

Turnaround time

VZV IgG - 2.9 days

VZV PCR (not CSF) - 4 days

What to request on EPR

Varicella zoster (VZV) IgG screen; VZV/HSV PCR non-genital vesicle specimen

Adeno / HSV / VZV / Chlamydia PCR non-genital specimen (eyes); CSF virus PCR