HHV-6 – detection

Alternative Names/Synonyms	Molecular detection of HHV-6
Laboratory	Microbiology
Sub-section	Virology
Specimen Type	○ Plasma

Other Information

○ HHV-6 testing should be considered when those 3 criteria are met: 1) transplant population, 2) compatible syndrome (encephalitis, hepatitis, pancytopenia, etc.) and 3) when the other causes have been excluded. Exceptions should be discussed with the microbiologist on call.

Specimen Requirements (Tube Type)

○ EDTA tube (lavender top)

Collection Requirements

○ Decontaminate skin with 70% alcohol followed by iodine or chlorhexidine, collect at least 5 mL of blood

Sample Stability

Refer to section Sample Processing / Delivery

Referral Laboratory

In-house

Laboratory Contact Information

416-586-4800 extension 4531

Approval Required

YES

Sample Processing / Delivery

○ Label specimen container. Place specimens in biohazard bag and seal.

○ Specimens should be stored at refrigeration temperature (2-8˚C) after collection and transported to the UHN/SH Microbiology Laboratory

○ UHN/SH Microbiology Laboratory will perform testing in house.