Ordering RecommendationRecommendations when to order or not order the test. May include related or preferred tests.
Detect herpes simplex virus (HSV) by viral culture and differentiate types 1 and 2. Molecular testing is generally preferred; refer to Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV-1/HSV-2) Subtype by PCR (2010095).
MnemonicUnique test identifier.
V HSVCT
MethodologyProcess(es) used to perform the test.
Cell Culture/Immunoassay
PerformedDays of the week the test is performed.
Sun-Sat
ReportedExpected turnaround time for a result, beginning when ARUP has received the specimen.
1-7 days
New York DOH Approval StatusIndicates test has been approved by the New York State Department of Health.
This test is New York DOH approved.
Specimen Required
Patient Preparation
Collect
Buccal mucosa, eye, genital, rectal, throat or vesicle swab, or bronchoalveolar lavage, tissue or vesiclefluid.
Specimen Preparation
Fluid: Transfer 3 mL specimen to a sterile container. (Min: 0.5 mL) Also acceptable: Transfer to 3 mL 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 3 mL viral transport media (ARUP Supply #12884) available online through eSupply using ARUP Connect™ or contact ARUP Client Services at (800) 522-2787.
Storage/Transport Temperature
Refrigerated.
Unacceptable Conditions
Blood, CSF, plasma, or serum. Calcium alginate, eSwab, dry, or wood swabs.
Reference IntervalNormal range/expected value(s) for a specific disease state. May also include abnormal ranges.
Culture negative for herpes simplex virus.
Interpretive DataBackground information for test. May include disease information, patient result explanation, recommendations, details of testing, associated diseases, explanation of possible patient results.
Compliance Category
Standard
NoteAdditional information related to the test.
If culture is positive for HSV, then HSV typing test will be added. Additional charges apply.
Herpes Simplex Virus by PCR (ARUP test code 0060041) on CSF specimens is standard of care for diagnosing HSV meningitis/meningoencephalitis.
Hotline History
N/A
CPT CodesThe American Medical Association Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes published in ARUP's Laboratory Test Directory are provided for informational purposes only. The codes reflect our interpretation of CPT coding requirements based upon AMA guidelines published annually. CPT codes are provided only as guidance to assist clients with billing. ARUP strongly recommends that clients confirm CPT codes with their Medicare administrative contractor, as requirements may differ. CPT coding is the sole responsibility of the billing party. ARUP Laboratories assumes no responsibility for billing errors due to reliance on the CPT codes published.
* Component test codes cannot be used to order tests. The information provided here is not sufficient for interface builds; for a complete test mix, please click the sidebar link to access the Interface Map.
AliasesOther names that describe the test. Synonyms.
Herpes Culture
Herpes Simplex Viral Culture
HSV type 1
HSV type 2
HSV-1 or HSV-2
HSV1 and HSV2
Herpes Simplex Virus Culture with Reflex to HSV Typing