Epstein-Barr Virus Quantitation/Viral Load (Plasma)
Indication
Serial measurements of EBV 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
EBV levels will be measured following DNA extraction, using quantitative real-time PCR.
Test Parameters
Viral load measurements are calibrated against a viral particle standard. The lower limit of linearity of this assay is 400 EBV copies/ml plasma. EBV detected below that level will be reported as “low positive.” EBV DNA is rarely detected in the plasma of healthy individuals.
Turnaround Time
Five to seven working days
Sample Requirements
10 ml peripheral blood in lavender top (EDTA) tube, sent on wet ice
Blood specimen should be shipped on wet ice by air express for delivery within 48 hours. Report will fax to physician after result obtained immediately.
EBV quantitation on other specimens can be done; however, the clinical significance of viral load measurements other than in plasma is not well-established.
CPT Codes
87799
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.