Laboratory Services
Hepatitis C RNA Genotyping by PCR
Print this pageUpdated Test Information:
| Test Description |
Hepatitis C RNA Genotyping by PCR
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|---|---|---|
| Synonym(s) |
HCV Genotyping, Hep C Genotype, UOW177 |
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| Test ID |
HCPCGT
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| General Information |
The Abbott real-time FDA approved HCV assay genotypes the Hepatitis C virus by real-time PCR amplification. The six major HCV genotypes have at least one genotype-specific single-nucleotide polymorphism in the 5' non-coding region HCV RNA in the patient’s sample is amplified with 9 separate allele-specific primer/probe sets at the 5’ UTR and NS5b regions of the virus. RNA is added by the instrument into 3 different mixes (A, B, and C) using the Genotype II kit. Based on which genotype(s) is/are present, there will be signal from the probe in either A, B, or C, or a combination. There are six major genotypes of HCV, with numerous characterized subtypes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6. The RNA concentration detected with a probability of 95% or greater of the Genotype assay is 500 IU/mL (2.70 log IU/mL). About 7% of samples are unable to be genotyped, either due to the lack of specific signal or to the interpretation of a mixed signal. These samples will require Sanger sequencing of the amplicon to determine the genotype |
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| Container Type |
Blood: 5 mL blood in PPT (PEARL TOP) tube. Also Acceptable: 5 mL blood in GOLD SST, RED, or EDTA (LAVENDAR TOP) tube. Note: Separate specimens MUST be submitted when both Viral Culture/Serology and PCR testing are ordered. |
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| Specimen Type |
Serum/Plasma |
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| Specimen Collection / Processing Instructions |
Separate serum or plasma from whole blood within 6 hours of collection. |
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| Minimum Sample Volume |
1 mL |
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| Stability |
Serum or plasma may be stored at 2-8°C (ice pack) for up to 48 hours from collection. Do not freeze/thaw. Freeze at -10°C for greater than 48 hours. |
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| Unacceptable Specimen Conditions |
Plasma collected in sodium or lithium heparin. |
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| Department (code) |
Virology |
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| Methodology |
Real-time Polymerase Chain Reaction. |
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| Testing Schedule |
Wednesday |
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| Test Includes |
HCPCGR HCV RNA Genotype Result |
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| CPT Code(s) |
87902 |
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| STAT Orderable (Y/N) |
No |
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| LOINC Code(s) |
UW |
