Cytomegalovirus (CMV) Quantitation/Viral Load
Plasma
Indication
Serial measurements of CMV viral load can be used to monitor the level of viral reactivation and/or disease activity, particularly in the post-transplant and chemotherapy settings.
Methodology
CMV levels will be measured following DNA extraction from plasma, using quantitative real-time PCR.
Test Parameters
The lower limit of detection of this assay is 125 CMV genome copies/ml plasma. The lower limit of quantitation of this assay is 250 CMV genome copies/ml plasma. CMV detected below that level will be reported as “low positive.” CMV DNA is rarely detected in the plasma of healthy immunocompetent individuals.
Turnaround Time
3 days
Sample Requirements
2-5 ml peripheral blood in lavender top (EDTA) tube.
CPT Codes
87497
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.