Ordering Recommendation
Aid in diagnosis of active cytomegalovirus infection. Molecular testing is generally preferred.
Mnemonic
Methodology
Cell Culture/Immunofluorescence
Performed
Sun-Sat
Reported
1-5 days
New York DOH Approval Status
Specimen Required
Lavender (EDTA) or pink (K2EDTA). OR bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL), throat swab, tissue, or urine.
Blood: Transport 5 mL whole blood. (Min: 1 mL)
Fluid specimen: Transfer specimen to a sterile container. Transfer 2 mL fluid to a sterile container. (Min: 0.5 mL). Also acceptable: Transfer to viral transport media (ARUP supply #12884). Available online through eSupply using ARUP Connect™ or contact ARUP Client Services at (800) 522-2787.
Swab or tissue: Place in viral transport media.
Place each specimen in an individually sealed bag.
Refrigerated.
CSF, rectal swab, or stool. Whole blood in viral transport media. Calcium alginate, eSwab, dry, or wood swabs.
Specimen source preferred.
Ambient: 2 hours; Refrigerated: 72 hours; Frozen: Unacceptable.
Reference Interval
Culture negative for CMV by early antigen test.
Interpretive Data
FDA
Note
Cytomegalovirus by PCR is a more sensitive method for the detection of CMV viremia and central nervous system infections, especially in the immunocompromised patient. Please refer to Cytomegalovirus by PCR, Whole Blood or Bone Marrow (ARUP test code 0060031) for whole blood or bone marrow specimens or Cytomegalovirus by PCR (ARUP test code 0060040) for CSF specimens.
Hotline History
CPT Codes
87254
Components
Component Test Code* | Component Chart Name | LOINC |
---|---|---|
0065004 | Culture, Cytomegalovirus Rapid | 5838-8 |
Aliases
- CMV Culture
- Culture, CMV