Test Code CMVLR Cytomegalovirus (CMV) Molecular Detection, PCR, Lower Respiratory
Ordering Guidance
For plasma specimens, order CMVQN / Cytomegalovirus (CMV) DNA Detection and Quantification by Real-Time PCR, Plasma.
Necessary Information
Specimen source is required.
Specimen Required
Specimen Type: Lower respiratory
Source: Bronchial washing, bronchoalveolar lavage, fluid/washings from lung, sputum, tracheal secretions, tracheal aspirates
Container/Tube:
Preferred: Sterile, screwcap, 5-mL aliquot tube
Acceptable: Sterile container
Specimen Volume: 1 mL
Collection Instructions: Do not centrifuge.
Useful For
Rapid qualitative detection of cytomegalovirus (CMV) DNA in lower respiratory specimens
This test is not intended for the monitoring of CMV disease progression or response to therapy.
Method Name
Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)/DNA Probe Hybridization
Reporting Name
Cytomegalovirus, PCR, Lower RespSpecimen Type
VariesSpecimen Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Specimen Stability Information
Specimen Type | Temperature | Time |
---|---|---|
Varies | Refrigerated (preferred) | 7 days |
Frozen | 7 days |
Reject Due To
Lower respiratory swab Calcium alginate-tipped swab Wood swab Transport swab containing gel Feces Paraffin blocks Tissue specimens Tissue biopsy Bronchial brushings Heat-inactivated specimens Lower respiratory in transport media |
Reject |
Clinical Information
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a double-stranded DNA virus of the Herpesviridae family. CMV is transmitted through infected body fluids, as well as through sexual contact, organ transplantation, and intrauterine transmission during pregnancy. CMV infection may be asymptomatic but can cause a wide range of symptoms in immunocompromised individuals. Detection of CMV DNA in lower respiratory specimens may support the clinical diagnosis of CMV pneumonitis. Infection with CMV is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in transplant recipients and other immunocompromised hosts.
Reference Values
Negative
Reference values apply to all ages.
Interpretation
A positive result indicates the presence of cytomegalovirus (CMV) DNA in the patient specimen.
A negative result indicates the absence of CMV DNA in the patient specimen but does not rule out possible infection with CMV.
An invalid result indicates the inability to conclusively determine presence or absence of CMV DNA in the patient specimen.
Cautions
This test is not validated for lung tissue or biopsy specimens; it is only validated for the lower respiratory specimens indicated in Specimen Required.
Negative results do not preclude cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection and should not be used as the sole basis for treatment or other patient management decisions.
False-negative results may occur if the viral nucleic acid is present at a level below the analytical sensitivity of the assay, if the virus has genomic mutations, insertions, deletions, or rearrangements, or if the assay is performed very early in the course of illness.
The performance of this test has not been established for monitoring treatment of CMV infection.
Day(s) Performed
Monday through Sunday
Report Available
Same day/1 to 2 daysPerforming Laboratory

Test Classification
This test was developed and its performance characteristics determined by Mayo Clinic in a manner consistent with CLIA requirements. It has not been cleared or approved by the US Food and Drug Administration.CPT Code Information
87496
LOINC Code Information
Test ID | Test Order Name | Order LOINC Value |
---|---|---|
CMVLR | Cytomegalovirus, PCR, Lower Resp | 104760-4 |
Result ID | Test Result Name | Result LOINC Value |
---|---|---|
CMVSS | Specimen Source | 31208-2 |
621771 | CMVLR, PCR | 104760-4 |