Trioplex Real-Time RT-PCR (Zika, Chikungunya, Dengue)

Laboratory Fee Schedule
Procedure #: MZZ0546A
CPT: N/A

Synonym(s): Zika Real-Time RT-PCR, Chikungunya Real-Time RT-PCR, Dengue Real-Time RT-PCR
Requisition FormG2-V
Test DescriptionTesting of specimens to detect the presence of chikungunya, dengue, and/or Zika RNA in patients who meet epidemiological criteria for testing
Pre-Approval NeededContact your local or state epidemiologist if chikungunya, dengue or Zika virus are suspected. Contact information can be found at the following link https://www.dshs.texas.gov/idps-investigation-forms/disease-reporting-contacts.
Supplemental Information Required
  • Date of onset
  • Symptoms
  • Travel history
  • Pregnancy status
Supplemental Form(s)Chikungunya, Dengue, and Zika testing and Supplemental Information Form.  
Performed on Specimens from (sources)Human
Sample/Specimen Type for Testing
  • Separated serum (aliquot)
  • Whole blood w/EDTA
  • CSF
  • Urine (aliquot, please do not send urine cups) and amniotic fluid are also acceptable for Zika Testing ONLY.

NOTE: Serum is the preferred diagnostic specimen. Whole blood (EDTA), CSF, urine and amniotic fluid may only be tested alongside a patient-matched serum specimen.

Minimum Volume/Size Required3-5 mL
Storage/Preservation Prior to Shipping
  • Refrigerate at 2-8°C, or freeze at -70°C or below. 
  • Serum should be poured over in a separate tube.
Transport MediumEDTA for whole blood
Specimen Labeling
  • Two patient-specific identifiers required (e.g., patient full name, date of birth, Medical record number).
  • Identifiers on specimen must exactly match submission form.
Shipping and Specimen Handling Requirements

Ship samples: 

  • According to Dangerous Good Regulations, IATA, and/or CFR 49.
  • Handling as infectious agent using universal precautions.
  • Triple-contained in accordance with federal shipping regulations for infectious agents.
  • 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 -20 ̊C or below and ship overnight on dry ice.
  • Whole blood (EDTA) should be shipped on cold packs and received cold. 
MethodReal-time RT-PCR
Turn-around Time5 business days following approval for testing
Interferences/Limitations
  • 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.
Common Causes for Rejection
  • 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.
  • Incorrect specimen type.
  • Specimen does not meet epidemiological criteria for testing.
Additional InformationVisit www.texaszika.org/labs.htm for more information.