HIV-2 DNA/RNA, Qualitative, Real-Time PCR

CPT Code: 87538
Order Code: 34977
ABN Requirement: No
Specimen: EDTA Whole Blood
Volume:  1.0 mL
Minimum Volume:  0.4 mL
Container: EDTA (Lavender Top) Tube

Collection:

  1. Collect and label sample according to standard protocols.
  2. Gently invert EDTA whole blood tube 8-10 times immediately after draw. Do not shake.
  3. Do not centrifuge.

Special Instructions: Specimen must be labeled with patient identifiers and submitted only for HIV testing.

HIV Testing Pathway Algorithm:
https://www.questdiagnostics.com/hcp/intguide/InfectDis/HIV/TS_HIV4thGenScreen_Figure.pdf

Transport: Store EDTA whole blood at 2°C to 8°C after collection and ship the same day per packaging instructions included with the provided shipping box.

Stability:

Ambient (15-25°C): 7 days
Refrigerated (2-8°C): 14days
Frozen (-20°C): 30 days

Causes for Rejection: Specimens other than EDTA whole blood; improper labeling; samples not stored properly; samples older than stability limits; hemolyzed specimens; frozen specimens; heparinized whole blood

Methodology: Real-Time Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR)

Turn Around Time: 3 to 4 days

Reference Range: Not Detected

Clinical Significance: Infection with Human Immunodeficiency Virus type 2 (HIV-2) is currently diagnosed by the presence of antibodies to HIV-2, the detection of specific HIV-2 antigens or the ability to culture HIV-2 from blood, fluid or tissue of infected persons. The Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) technique, on the other hand, allows for the exponential enzymatic amplification of selected HIV-2 DNA sequences present in clinical specimens. The amplified fragments are then detected by hybridization to an HIV-2 specific labeled probe. As a result, the HIV-2 DNA PCR is a highly sensitive and specific method to detect the presence of HIV-2 proviral DNA in clinical specimens. The diagnosis of infection should not rely solely upon the result of a PCR assay. A positive result should be considered in conjunction with clinical presentation and additional clinical tests. A negative PCR result indicates the absence of HIV-2 proviral DNA at detectable levels in the sample tests and does not exclude diagnosis of disease.

The CPT codes provided are based on AMA guidelines and are for informational purposes only. CPT coding is the sole responsibility of the billing party. Please direct any questions regarding coding to the payer being billed.