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HelpTest ID: RZIKS Zika Virus, PCR, Molecular Detection, Serum
Useful For
Qualitative detection of Zika virus RNA in serum from individuals meeting CDC Zika virus clinical or epidemiologic criteria
Testing Algorithm
The following algorithms are available in Special Instructions:
Special Instructions
Method Name
Real-Time Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)/DNA Probe Hybridization
Reporting Name
Zika Virus, PCR, SerumSpecimen Type
SerumOrdering Guidance
Due to similar clinical presentations, testing for RNA or IgM-class antibodies to dengue and chikungunya viruses, concurrently with Zika virus testing, is strongly recommended.
Necessary Information
Order questions and answers concerning pregnancy, exposure, and display of symptoms are required.
Specimen Required
Collection Container/Tube:
Preferred: Serum gel
Acceptable: Red top
Submission Container: Sterile container
Specimen Volume: 0.5 mL
Collection Instructions:
1. Collect whole blood in a serum gel tube.
2. Centrifuge and aliquot the serum into a sterile container within 6 hours of collection.
3. Label specimen as serum.
Specimen Minimum Volume
0.25 mL
Specimen Stability Information
| Specimen Type | Temperature | Time | Special Container |
|---|---|---|---|
| Serum | Refrigerated (preferred) | 7 days | |
| Frozen | 7 days |
Clinical Information
Zika virus is an RNA virus in the genus Flavivirus and is primarily transmitted through the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito. Other means of transmission include through transfusion of blood and blood products, sexually through genital secretions, perinatally, vertically from mother to fetus, and potentially through contact with other body secretions such as tears and sweat.
Historically, most cases of Zika virus infection have occurred in parts of Africa and South-East Asia. However, Zika virus emerged in South America in early 2015 and is now endemic in over 50 countries in South, Central, and North America, including in several US territories and focal regions of the southern United States.
The majority (approximately 80%) of individuals infected with Zika virus are asymptomatic. Among symptomatic patients, fever, headache, retro-orbital pain, conjunctivitis, maculopapular rash, myalgias and arthralgias are commonly reported. Notably, these symptoms are not distinct and can be seen with other emerging arboviruses, including dengue and chikungunya. Therefore, diagnostic testing for each of these viruses is recommended in patients returning for areas where these viruses cocirculate. Intrauterine or prenatal infection with Zika virus has been causally linked to development of microcephaly, with the greatest risk for fetal abnormality occurring if the infection is acquired during the first trimester. Finally, Zika virus has also been associated with development of Guillain-Barre syndrome.
A number of Zika virus serologic and nucleic acid amplification tests (NAAT) have received emergency use authorization (EUA) through the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The recommended tests vary by the patient's symptoms, course of illness, and whether or not the patient is pregnant.
For the most up-to-date information regarding CDC testing guidelines visit www.cdc.gov/zika/.
These guidelines are reflected in Assessment for Zika Virus Infection in Special Instructions:
Zika virus testing is not recommended for asymptomatic couples attempting conception, given the potential for false-positive and false-negative results. Additionally, it is well established the Zika virus may remain in reproductive fluids, despite negative serologic and molecular test results in blood and urine.
Reference Values
Negative
Interpretation
A positive test result indicates the presence of Zika virus RNA in the specimen.
A negative test result with a positive internal control indicates that Zika virus RNA is not detectable in the specimen.
A negative test result with a negative internal control is considered evidence of PCR inhibition or reagent failure. A new specimen should be collected for testing if clinically indicated.
Clinical Reference
1. Oduyebo T, Igbinosa I, Petersen EE, et al: US Update: Interim Guidance for Health Care Providers Caring for Women of Reproductive Age with Possible Zika Virus Exposure-United States. Morb Mortal Wkly Rep MMWR 2016 Jul 25;65:739-744
2. United States Food and Drug Administration. Emergency Use Authorizations (Medical Devices). Available at www.fda.gov/MedicalDevices/Safety/EmergencySituations/ucm161496.htm
3. Waggoner JJ, Pinsky BA: Zika Virus: Diagnostics for an Emerging Pandemic Threat. J Clin Microbiol 2016;54(4):860-867
Day(s) Performed
Tuesday, Thursday
Report Available
5 to 8 daysTest Classification
This test has been cleared, approved, or is exempt by the US Food and Drug Administration and is used per manufacturer's instructions. Performance characteristics were verified by Mayo Clinic in a manner consistent with CLIA requirements.CPT Code Information
87662
LOINC Code Information
| Test ID | Test Order Name | Order LOINC Value |
|---|---|---|
| RZIKS | Zika Virus, PCR, Serum | 85622-9 |
| Result ID | Test Result Name | Result LOINC Value |
|---|---|---|
| 47956 | Zika Serum PCR Result | 85622-9 |
| PREGY | Is patient pregnant? | 11449-6 |
| EXPOS | Has patient had Zika exposure? | 88636-6 |
| SYMP | Has patient been symptomatic? | 75325-1 |
| 48059 | Zika Serum PCR Interpretation | 69048-7 |
Forms
If not ordering electronically, complete, print, and send a Microbiology Test Request (T244) with the specimen.
mml-mosquitoborne