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HelpTest Code VZIKU Zika Virus, PCR, Molecular Detection, Random, Urine
Ordering Guidance
Due to similar clinical presentations, testing for RNA or IgM-class antibodies to dengue and chikungunya viruses, concurrently with Zika virus testing, is strongly recommended.
Additional Testing Requirements
The US Food and Drug Administration requires that urine specimens be tested in conjunction with a paired serum specimen; order VZIKS / Zika Virus, PCR, Molecular Detection, Serum for the paired serum specimen.
Specimen Required
Container/Tube: Sterile container
Specimen Volume: 1 mL
Collection Instructions:
1. Collect random urine in a sterile container.
2. Label specimen as urine.
Useful For
Qualitative detection of Zika virus RNA in paired urine and serum from individuals meeting the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention Zika virus clinical or epidemiologic criteria
Testing Algorithm
Due to US Food and Drug Administration requirements, urine specimens must be tested in conjunction with a paired serum specimen. See Additional Testing Requirements
The following algorithms are available:
Special Instructions
Method Name
Real-Time Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR)/DNA Probe Hybridization
Reporting Name
Zika Virus PCR, UrineSpecimen Type
UrineSpecimen Minimum Volume
0.3 mL
Specimen Stability Information
| Specimen Type | Temperature | Time | Special Container |
|---|---|---|---|
| Urine | Refrigerated (preferred) | 7 days | |
| Frozen | 7 days |
Reject Due To
| Other | Urine containing preservatives |
Clinical Information
Zika virus is an RNA virus in the genus Flavivirus and is primarily transmitted through the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito. Other means of transmission include through transfusion of blood and blood products, sexually through genital secretions, perinatally, vertically from mother to fetus, and, potentially, through contact with other body secretions, such as tears and sweat.
Historically, most cases of Zika virus infection have occurred in parts of Africa and Southeast Asia. However, Zika virus emerged in South America in early 2015 and is now endemic in over 50 countries in South, Central, and North America, including in several US territories and focal regions of the southern United States.
The majority (approximately 80%) of individuals infected with Zika virus are asymptomatic. Fever, headache, retro-orbital pain, conjunctivitis, maculopapular rash, myalgias and arthralgias are commonly reported among symptomatic patients. Notably, these symptoms are not distinct and can be seen with other emerging arboviruses, including dengue and chikungunya. Therefore, diagnostic testing for each of these viruses is recommended in patients returning form areas where these viruses cocirculate. Intrauterine or prenatal infection with Zika virus has been causally linked to development of microcephaly, with the greatest risk for fetal abnormality occurring if the infection is acquired during the first trimester. Finally, Zika virus has also been associated with development of Guillain-Barre syndrome.
A number of Zika virus serologic and nucleic acid amplification tests have received emergency use authorization (EUA) through the US Food and Drug Administration. The recommended tests vary by the patient's symptoms, course of illness, and whether or not the patient is pregnant.
For the most up-to-date information regarding the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention testing guidelines visit www.cdc.gov/zika/.
These guidelines are reflected in Assessment for Zika Virus Infection.
Zika virus testing is not recommended for asymptomatic couples attempting conception, given the potential for false-positive and false-negative results. Additionally, it is well established the Zika virus may remain in reproductive fluids despite negative serologic and molecular test results in blood and urine.
Reference Values
Negative
Reference values apply to all ages.
Interpretation
A positive test result indicates the presence of Zika virus RNA in the specimen. The FDA requires that urine specimens be tested in conjunction with a paired serum specimen. However, a positive result in either specimen is consistent with recent infection.
A negative test result with a positive internal control indicates that Zika virus RNA is not detectable in the specimen.
A negative test result with a negative internal control is considered evidence of polymerase chain reaction inhibition or reagent failure. A new specimen should be collected for testing if clinically indicated.
Day(s) Performed
Tuesday, Thursday
Report Available
Same day/1 to 5 daysSpecimen Retention Time
7 daysPerforming Laboratory
Mayo Clinic Laboratories in Rochester
Test Classification
This test has received Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) by the US Food and Drug Administration and is used per manufacturer's instructions. Performance characteristics were verified by Mayo Clinic in a manner consistent with CLIA requirements.CPT Code Information
87662
LOINC Code Information
| Test ID | Test Order Name | Order LOINC Value |
|---|---|---|
| VZIKU | Zika Virus PCR, Urine | 85623-7 |
| Result ID | Test Result Name | Result LOINC Value |
|---|---|---|
| 619458 | Zika Urine PCR Result | 85623-7 |
| 619459 | Zika Urine PCR Interpretation | 69048-7 |
Forms
If not ordering electronically, complete, print, and send a Microbiology Test Request (T244) with the specimen.