Test Details
Methodology
Direct fluorescent antibody (DFA)
Result Turnaround Time
1 - 3 days
Turnaround time is defined as the usual number of days from the date of pickup of a specimen for testing to when the result is released to the ordering provider. In some cases, additional time should be allowed for additional confirmatory or additional reflex tests. Testing schedules may vary.
Test Includes
Direct microscopic examination (nonculture) of virus-infected cells. Quality of specimen may be evaluated.
Use
Rapid diagnosis of varicella-zoster virus
Special Instructions
Submit one specimen per test requested. Specify the exact specimen source/origin (eg, skin lesion). Indicate a specific test number on the request form.
References
Specimen Requirements
Specimen
Impression smears of tissues, lesion scrapings and swabs, upper respiratory tract swabs
Volume
Two slides per virus
Container
Plain glass slide, no fixative
Collection Instructions
Submit two thinly made air-dried slides. Do not use spray fixative.
Reference Range
No virus detected
Storage Instructions
Refrigerate or maintain specimen at room temperature.
Causes for Rejection
Specimen received after prolonged delay in transport (usually more than 72 hours); unlabeled specimen or name discrepancy between specimen and request label; broken or badly scratched slides; fixative used on slides; bacterial swab transport
LOINC® Map
| Order Code | Order Code Name | Order Loinc | Result Code | Result Code Name | UofM | Result LOINC |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 185009 | Virus, Varicella Zoster Ag,DFA | 5882-6 | 185009 | Virus, Varicella Zoster Ag,DFA | 5882-6 | |
| Order Code | 185009 | |||||
| Order Code Name | Virus, Varicella Zoster Ag,DFA | |||||
| Order Loinc | 5882-6 | |||||
| Result Code | 185009 | |||||
| Result Code Name | Virus, Varicella Zoster Ag,DFA | |||||
| UofM | ||||||
| Result LOINC | 5882-6 |