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Synonym(s):
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Measles (Rubeola) PCR
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Requisition Form
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G-2V
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Test Description
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Testing of suspected measles samples
to detect the presence or absence of measles virus RNA in symptomatic patients.
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Pre-Approval Needed
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Contact
your local or state epidemiologist if measles is suspected.
Contact information can be found at the following link: http://www.dshs.texas.gov/idcu/investigation/conditions/contacts/
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Supplemental Information Required
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Date of onset
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Supplemental Form(s)
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N/A
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Performed on Specimens from (sources)
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Human
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Sample/Specimen Type for Testing
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Nasopharyngeal swabs, throat swabs,
and oral swabs.
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Minimum Volume/Size Required
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1-2 mL
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Storage/Preservation Prior to Shipping
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Keep cold or freeze.
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Transport Medium
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Universal transport media (UTM) or
viral transport media (VTM).
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Specimen Labeling
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Tube must have two forms of identification,
preferably full name and DOB.
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Shipping and Specimen Handling Requirements
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- If specimens will arrive at the lab
within 48 hours of collection, refrigerate at 2-8 ̊C and ship overnight on
cold packs.
- If specimens will arrive at the lab
more than 48 hours after time of collection, freeze at -70 ̊C and ship overnight on dry ice.
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Method
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Real-time
RT-PCR
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Turn-around Time
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2 business
days
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Interferences/Limitations
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- False negative may result if specimen is
improperly collected, transported, or handled.
- Detection of viral RNA does not imply that
the corresponding virus is infectious or is the causative agent for clinical
symptoms.
- A negative result does not preclude
infection.
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Causes for Rejection
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Information
on the form and tube do not match, failure to put two forms of identification
on tube, specimen received cold greater than 48 hours after collection, specimen
received ambient, submission of incorrect specimen type.
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Additional Information
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