JC (Polyomovirus) PCR

Test information: JC virus is the etiologic agent of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) which is mainly seen in patients who are immune-deficient for long periods. In addition to PML JC virus also causes nephropathy in the renal transplant setting, although with considerably less frequency than BK virus. JC virus should always be considered in an immunocompromised patient with progressively deteriorating CNS function.

Availability: Referred to UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) Virus Reference Department (VRD): Monday - Friday during routine hours: 08:45 - 17:15.

Turnaround Time: 10 Days upon receipt at UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) Virus Reference Department (VRD)

Specimen Type(s)

• Cerebrospinal fluid;
• Clotted blood;
• EDTA Whole Blood;
• Tissue;
• Tissue Biopsies;
• Urine;

Other Acceptable Specimen Type(s)

N/A

Specimen Container - Adult

• Gold Top SST BD;
• Purple Top BD;
• Sterile CE-marked Universal Container;
• Urine Monovette Primary Tube;

Specimen Container - Paediatric

• Plain Top Sarstedt;
• Purple Top Microtainer BD;
• Sterile CE-marked Universal Container;
• Urine Monovette Primary Tube;

Analytes

• Human Polyomavirus 2 DNA;

Part of a test profile?

No

Volume (min) of sample to be sent to laboratory

Unseparated blood on EDTA: 5 - 10mL

Patient Preparation, Sample Handling and Transport

• Specimens should be transported to the laboratory as soon as possible.
• Outside of normal hours samples should be refrigerated (2 °C to 8 °C).
• Minimum-clotting time 30 minutes.
• Cerebrospinal Fluid are only tested when there is a paired serum sample.

Maximum add on time

N/A

Units and Reference Ranges / Interpretation

Results: Not Detected / Positive

UKAS number

8825

UKAS accredited test?

Yes

Comments

N/A

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