VZV, Varicella zoster virus – serology

Alternative Names/Synonyms	Detection of Varicella zoster virus IgG and/or IgM antibodies
Laboratory	Microbiology
Sub-section	Serology
Specimen Type	○ Whole blood ○ Serum

Other Information

○ VZV IgG testing will be performed on all requests for VZV serology.
○ VZV IgG and IgM will only be performed when the clinical situation is indicating acute/recent infection or if the patient is a pregnant woman.

Specimen Requirements (Tube Type)

○ Clotted blood, serum separator tube

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 VZV IgG PHOL VZV IgM

Routine Turnaround Time

○ Up to 3 days if performed in-house
○ Up to 5 days from receipt at PHO laboratory

Laboratory Contact Information

416-586-4800 extension 4640

Approval Required

Sample Processing / Delivery

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

○ Specimen should be transported to the UHN/SH Microbiology Laboratory at room temperature (20-25˚C) immediately after collection.

○ UHN/SH Microbiology Laboratory will either perform testing in house (IgG only) or refer the original specimen to the Public Health Ontario Laboratory for testing.