West Nile, St. Louis Encephalitis, and Eastern Equine Encephalitis Viruses: Detection in Equines, RT-PCR

Laboratory Fee Schedule
Procedure: MMB0040A
CPT: N/A


Synonym(s):	alphavirus, arbovirus, EEEV, equine, flavivirus, horse, reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction, SLEV, WNV
Requisition Form	G-9
Test Description	Real-time RT-PCR multiplex assay for detection of West Nile virus, St. Louis encephalitis virus, and Eastern equine encephalitis virus in equine samples submitted for rabies testing.
Pre-Approval Needed	No. This test is conducted as a reflex for equine rabies specimen submissions that are negative for rabies. This test cannot be ordered by submitters.
Supplemental Information Required	Ensure the DSHS Lab is notified of specimen submission by calling the Rabies Hotline at 1-800-252-8163.
Supplemental Form(s)	N/A
Performed on Specimens from (sources)	Non-human Equine
Sample/Specimen Type for Testing	Equine brain tissue identified as negative for rabies virus by DFA testing.
Minimum Volume/Size Required	Fresh Brain Tissue: Complete transverse cross section of the brain stem and a cross section of the cerebellum and/or hippocampus.
Storage/Preservation Prior to Shipping	Store at refrigeration temperatures (2°C–8°C). Do not freeze. Do not preserve tissue in formalin.
Transport Medium	N/A
Specimen Labeling	Each specimen must be submitted with a G-9 rabies specimen submission form. Specimen label or identification must match submission form. If more than one specimen is being shipped, each one must be labeled with an identification name or number and must have its own submission form.
Shipping and Specimen Handling Requirements	See Rabies Specimen Shipping and Packing Instructions here. Include ice packs and absorbent material. Ship according to Biological Substance, Category B UN3373 shipping requirements.
Method	Real-time RT-PCR multiplex assay
Turn-around Time	2 days
Interferences/Limitations	Decomposition or destruction of brain tissue
Common Causes for Rejection	Insufficient specimen submitted (minimum volume not met). Improperly stored specimen (extreme heat, fixed in formalin). Failure to meet shipping or submission guidelines.
Additional Information	This test cannot be ordered by submitters. The DSHS Laboratory will determine testing need. See Rabies specimen submission guidance for submission process.