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
