HSV 1/2 PCR

Specimen Type = Swab, Red Tube Top

              

Test ID   LAB917
EPIC Order
   HSV 1 AND 2 BY PCR
CPT Code(s)   87529
Group/Individual Test   Individual
Laboratory   Molecular Microbiology, 984-974-1820
Tube Station   82
Specimen Routine:
CSF: 1mL sterile container;
Biopsy: sterile container;
Bone Marrow: lavender EDTA;
Bronchoscopy: obtained respiratory specimens: sterile container;
Lesion: red-capped swab **See Comments
Neonatal surface swabs: Swab the conjunctivae, mouth, nasopharynx, and anus (in that order) with a red-capped swab. 
Availability Routine: Monday-Friday
Turnaround Time   3 days
Reference Range
 Normal: Negative
Comment
  • Potential inhibitors to PCR which should not be used:
    --Cotton Swabs
    --Calcium alginate swabs
    --Wooden-shafted swabs
  • This assay detects and differentiates both HSV-1 and HSV-2 viral DNA.
  • For serological testing refer to:  Herpes Simplex Antibodies (HSV) (LAB5170)

**Lesions should be collected by unroofing a fresh lesion and swabbing the base of the lesion. 

Reviewed by J. Carr on July 14, 2026

UNC Hospitals
McLendon Clinical Laboratories
101 Manning Drive
Chapel Hill, NC 27514