Viruses – detection

Detection of HSV-1, HSV-2, VZV, enterovirus by molecular methods or any virus by culture
Microbiology
Virology
○ CSF (PCR) ○ Tissue (Culture)
Other Information
○ Stat and critical testing is unavailable
○ Tissue samples may also be tested by molecular methods depending on sample type, patient setting and requested organism.
○ CSF: sterile container
○ Tissue: sterile container with small amount of sterile saline (min 0.5 grams of tissue)

CSF:
○ Decontaminate skin, collect at least 1.0 mL of CSF for this test. Collect appropriate amount of CSF for each additional test requested.

Tissue:
○ Collect 5-10 mm3 tissue (at least 0.5 grams) aseptically using surgical technique. Place in a clean, sterile container with a small amount of sterile saline to prevent drying.

Refer to section Sample Processing / Delivery
In-house
○ Up to 3 days upon receipt by PHO laboratory (PCR)
○ Up to 18 days upon receipt by PHO laboratory (viral culture)
416-586-4800 extension 4643
NO
○ Label specimen container. Place specimens in biohazard bag and seal.

○ Specimen should be transported to the UHN/SH Microbiology Laboratory at refrigeration temperature (2-8˚C) immediately after collection.

○ The specimen will be referred to the Public Health Ontario Laboratory for testing*

* Some patient specimens will be processed in house for molecular testing