CYTOMEGALOVIRUS CMV PCR QUALITATIVE

Lab Section Category	Molecular Diagnostic - Microbiology View write-up
Specimen Required	(a) Blood: Please note that all blood samples sent for CMV qualitative PCR will be tested using CMV quantitative PCR instead. If CMV qualitative PCR is required for blood samples, please seek approval of our microbiologists. (b) Swab: Use only Dacron-tipped swabs. Send in swab sheath without any media. (c) CSF: At least 0.5 mL of undiluted sample in a sterile and leak-proof screw-capped container without any additives. (d) Vitreous or eye tap: At least 0.2 mL. Collect sample in a sterile leak-proof container or in a syringe with needle removed. (e) Urine: Collect in sterile container.
Indications	For detection of CMV DNA. As an adjunct for the diagnosis of CMV disease, i.e. from reactivation of latent disease in immunocompromised patients or in primary infection.
Storage/Transport	Refrigerate sample until transfer to laboratory. Do not freeze. Send sample at 2 - 8°C (with an ice-pack). Sample must reach the laboratory within 24 hours after collection.
Method	Real-time Polymerase Chain Reaction (In-house)
Test Results	Detected, Not Detected or Inconclusive
Turnaround Time	1 - 5 days
Day(s) Test Set up	Tuesday and Friday

Change History Notes

31 Jan 2024 09:00 AM

Turnaround Time: Last updated on 31/01/24.
05 Feb 2021 04:00 PM

Turnaround Time has been last updated on 05/02/21.
Day(s) Test Set-Up has been last updated on 05/02/21.
16 Jan 2017 11:00 AM

Turnaround Time: Last updated on 16/01/17.
Day(s) Test Set up: Last updated on 16/01/17.
26 May 2014 02:30 PM

Specimen Required: Specimen Required has been updated w.e.f. 26/05/14.
19 May 2014 04:20 PM

Specimen Required: Specimen Required has been last updated on 19/05/14.
18 Apr 2012 05:55 PM

Change test method w.e.f. 20 March 2012 (change from PCR to Real-time PCR).

Last Updated - 13 Jun 2025

CYTOMEGALOVIRUS (CMV) PCR (QUALITATIVE)