ARUP's Laboratory Test Directory

Varicella-Zoster Virus Antibody, IgG, CSF : 0054444

Mnemonic: VZECSF

Methodology: Semi-Quantitative Chemiluminescent Immunoassay
Performed: Sun - Sat
Reported: Within 24 hours
Specimen Required: Collect: CSF.

Specimen Preparation: Transfer 0.5 mL CSF to an ARUP Standard Transport Tube. (Min: 0.3 mL)

Storage/Transport Temperature: Refrigerated. Also acceptable: Frozen.

Unacceptable Conditions: Specimens other than CSF. Contaminated or heat-inactivated specimens.

Stability (collection to initiation of testing): Ambient: 8 hours; Refrigerated: 2 weeks; Frozen: 1 year

Reference Interval:
Effective August 20, 2012

134 IV or less: Negative - No significant level of IgG antibody to varicella-zoster virus detected.
135-165 IV: Equivocal - Repeat testing in 10-14 days may be helpful.
166 IV or greater: Positive - IgG antibody to varicella-zoster virus detected, which may indicate a current or past varicella-zoster infection.
Interpretive Data: The detection of antibodies to varicella-zoster in CSF may indicate central nervous system infection. However, consideration must be given to possible contamination by blood or transfer of serum antibodies across the blood-brain barrier.

See Compliance Statement B: www.aruplab.com/CS
CPT Code(s): 86787