Test ID LEBV Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV), Molecular Detection, PCR
Useful For
Rapid qualitative detection of Epstein-Barr virus DNA in specimens for laboratory diagnosis of disease due to this 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
Epstein-Barr Virus PCRSpecimen Type
VariesForms: 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 source is required.
Specimen Type: Fluid
Sources: Spinal, body, amniotic, ocular
Container/Tube: Sterile container
Specimen Volume: 0.5 mL
Collection Instructions: Do not centrifuge.
Specimen Type: Respiratory
Sources: Bronchial washing, bronchoalveolar lavage, nasopharyngeal aspirate or washing, sputum, or tracheal aspirate
Container/Tube: Sterile container
Specimen Volume: 1.5 mL
Specimen Type: Miscellaneous
Sources: Eye, nasal, throat
Container/Tube: BBL CultureSwab (T092)
Specimen Volume: Swab
Collection Instructions: Place swab back into swab cylinder
Specimen Type: Bone marrow
Container/Tube: Lavender top (EDTA) only
Specimen Volume: 0.5 mL
Specimen Type: Tissue
Sources: Brain, colon, kidney, liver, lung, etc.
Container/Tube: Sterile container with 1 to 2 mL of sterile saline or multi-microbe medium (M5) (T484)
Specimen Volume: Entire collection
Collection Instructions: Submit only fresh tissue.
Specimen Minimum Volume
Body Fluid, Ocular Fluid, Spinal Fluid: 0.3 mL/Respiratory Specimens: 1 mL
Specimen Stability Information
Specimen Type | Temperature | Time |
---|---|---|
Varies | Refrigerated (preferred) | 7 days |
Frozen | 7 days |
Clinical Information
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is the causative agent of infectious mononucleosis, Burkitt's lymphoma, and in Southern China, nasopharyngeal carcinoma. EBV-associated central nervous system (CNS) disease is most commonly associated with primary CNS lymphoma in patients with AIDS. In addition, CNS infection associated with the detection of EBV DNA can be seen in immunocompetent patients.
Reference Values
Negative
Cautions
A negative result does not eliminate the possibility of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection of the central nervous system.
This assay may detect viremia or viral shedding in asymptomatic individuals. However, this assay is only to be used for patients with a clinical history and symptoms consistent with EBV infection, and must be interpreted in the context of the clinical picture. This test should not be used to screen asymptomatic patients.
Day(s) Performed
Monday through Friday; 6 a.m.
Report Available
Monday through Friday: 2 days Saturday and Sunday: 3 daysPerforming Laboratory

Test Classification
This test was developed using an analyte specific reagent. Its performance characteristics were 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