Description
CMV causes mild or subclinical infection in the immunocompetent host. This real-time, quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay is used for the regular screening of immunocompromised patients, such as those undergoing bone marrow or solid organ transplants; the early detection of CMV viraemia can allow pre-emptive antiviral therapy. Additionally, the quantitative nature of this assay allows viral load to be monitored during treatment and thus may indicate the presence of antiviral resistant infection, as well as successful treatment. This assay is also used for the detection of congenital CMV infection, often by detection of CMV in urine, as well as respiratory tract infection, hepatitis, colitis, encephalitis and retinitis. The assay includes an internal control for control of both the nucleic extraction and amplification processes.
Also known as
CMV PCR
Request a test
To request this test please send sample with a request providing patient ID (three identifiers), specimen information, assay required, relevant clinical details and sender information. Before sending sample please read details on requesting and labelling by clicking on the link. Please also refer to any additional information provided for this test.
Additional information
This assay is duplexed with Adenovirus PCR
Sending address
Microbiology, Virology and Infection Control
Level 4, Camelia Botnar Laboratories
Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children
Great Ormond Street
London
WC1N 3JH
DX number: DX6640203
DX Exchange: Bloomsbury 91WC
Laboratory service
Microbiology, Virology and Infection Control
Sample requirements
Sterile container containing any of the following, as appropriate: EDTA whole blood or plasma (2ml in appropriate blood tube), serum (5ml in clotted blood tube), urine (1ml), NPA, BAL, biopsy of any relevant organ, CSF (minimum 200ul)
Reference range
Not applicable
Turnaround time
24 hours
Disease / group
Viral infection
Cost
Upon request
Call in advance?
Not required