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HelpTest ID: VZIKS Zika Virus, PCR, Molecular Detection, Serum
Ordering 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.
Specimen Required
Collection Container/Tube:
Preferred: Serum gel
Acceptable: Red top
Submission Container: Sterile container
Specimen Volume: 0.5 mL
Collection Instructions:
1. Within 2 hours of collection, centrifuge and aliquot the serum into a sterile container.
2. Serum specimens not aliquoted from the serum gel collection tube into a sterile container will be rejected.
Useful For
Qualitative detection of Zika virus RNA in serum from individuals meeting the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention Zika virus clinical or epidemiologic criteria
Special Instructions
Method Name
Real-Time Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR)/DNA Probe Hybridization
Reporting Name
Zika Virus PCR, SerumSpecimen Type
SerumSpecimen 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 Southeast 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. Fever, headache, retro-orbital pain, conjunctivitis, maculopapular rash, myalgias, and arthralgias are commonly reported among symptomatic patients. 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 form 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 have received emergency use authorization through the US Food and Drug Administration. 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 the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention testing guidelines, visit www.cdc.gov/zika/.
These guidelines are reflected in Assessment for Zika Virus Infection.
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
Reference values apply to all ages.
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 polymerase chain reaction 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. Update: Interim guidance for health care providers caring for women of reproductive age with possible Zika virus exposure-United States, July 2016. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep. 2016;65(29):739-744
2. United States Food and Drug Administration. Emergency Use Authorizations (Medical Devices). Updated September 7, 2022. Accessed October 1, 2024. 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
Same day/1 to 5 daysTest Classification
This test has received Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) 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 |
|---|---|---|
| VZIKS | Zika Virus PCR, Serum | 85622-9 |
| Result ID | Test Result Name | Result LOINC Value |
|---|---|---|
| 619456 | Zika Serum PCR Result | 85622-9 |
| 619457 | Zika Serum PCR Interpretation | 69048-7 |
Forms
If not ordering electronically, complete, print, and send a Microbiology Test Request (T244) with the specimen.