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HelpTest ID LCJC JC Virus, Molecular Detection, PCR, Spinal Fluid
Useful For
An aid in diagnosing progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy due to JC virus
Method Name
Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)/DNA Probe
Hybridization
(PCR is utilized pursuant to a license agreement with Roche
Molecular Systems, Inc.)
Reporting Name
JC Virus PCR, CSFSpecimen Type
CSFContainer/Tube: Sterile vial
Specimen Volume: 0.5 mL
Collection Instructions: Do not centrifuge.
Forms: If not ordering electronically, complete, print, and send 1 of the following forms with the specimen:
Microbiology Test Request Form (T244) (http://www.mayomedicallaboratories.com/it-mmfiles/microbiology_test_request_form.pdf)
Neurology Test Request Form-General (T732) (http://www.mayomedicallaboratories.com/it-mmfiles/neurology-request-form.pdf)
Specimen Minimum Volume
0.3 mL
Specimen Stability Information
| Specimen Type | Temperature | Time |
|---|---|---|
| CSF | Refrigerated (preferred) | 7 days |
| Frozen | 7 days |
Clinical Information
JC virus (JCV), a member of the genus Polyomavirus, is a small non-enveloped DNA-containing virus. Primary infection occurs in early childhood, with a prevalence of >80%.(1) The virus is latent but can reactivate in immunosuppressed patients, especially those with AIDS.
JCV is recognized as the etiologic agent of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), a fatal demyelinating disease of the central nervous system.(2,3) Histologic examination of brain biopsy tissue may reveal characteristic pathologic changes localized mainly in oligodendrocytes and astrocytes. Detection of JCV DNA by PCR (target gene, large T antigen) in the cerebrospinal fluid specimens of patients with suspected PML infection has replaced the need for biopsy tissue for laboratory diagnosis.(4) Importantly, the PCR test is specific with no cross-reaction with BK virus, a closely related polyomavirus.
Reference Values
Negative
Cautions
A negative result does not rule out the possibility of JC virus (JCV) infection.
This test is not to be used as a diagnostic tool for Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease.
The reference range in cerebrospinal fluid is "negative" for this assay, although JCV DNA may be detectable in the absence of clinical symptoms in certain patient populations.(5,6) However, this assay is only to be used for patients with appropriate neurological and neuroradiological features of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy, and is not indicated for screening asymptomatic patients.
Day(s) Performed
Monday through Friday
Report Available
Monday through Thursday: 2 days; Friday, Saturday: 3 daysPerforming Laboratory
Mayo Medical Laboratories in Rochester
Test Classification
This test was developed and its performance characteristics determined by Mayo Clinic in a manner consistent with CLIA requirements. This test has not been cleared or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.CPT Code Information
87798