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HelpTest Code HHV6V Human Herpesvirus-6, Molecular Detection, PCR, Spinal Fluid
Reporting Name
HHV-6 PCR, VariesUseful For
As an adjunct in the rapid diagnosis of human herpesvirus-6 infection using cerebrospinal fluid specimens
This test should not be used to screen asymptomatic patients.
Performing Laboratory
Mayo Clinic Laboratories in Rochester
Specimen Type
CSFSpecimen Required
Supplies: Sarstedt Aliquot Tube, 5 mL (T914)
Container/Tube:
Preferred: Aliquot tube
Acceptable: Sterile vial
Specimen Volume: 0.5 mL
Collection Instructions: Collect specimen from second collection vial. Do not centrifuge.
Specimen Minimum Volume
0.3 mL
Specimen Stability Information
| Specimen Type | Temperature | Time | Special Container |
|---|---|---|---|
| CSF | Refrigerated (preferred) | 7 days | |
| Frozen | 7 days |
Reference Values
Negative
Day(s) Performed
Monday, Wednesday, Friday
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
87532
LOINC Code Information
| Test ID | Test Order Name | Order LOINC Value |
|---|---|---|
| HHV6V | HHV-6 PCR, Varies | 33942-4 |
| Result ID | Test Result Name | Result LOINC Value |
|---|---|---|
| SS012 | Specimen Source | 31208-2 |
| 56092 | HHV-6 PCR, Varies | 33942-4 |
Clinical Information
Human herpesvirus-6 (HHV-6) is a member of the Herpesviridae family. These viruses contain DNA surrounded by a lipid envelope. Among members of this group, this virus is most closely related to cytomegalovirus (CMV) and HHV-7. As with other members of the herpesvirus group (herpes simplex virus [HSV] 1, HSV 2, varicella-zoster virus, CMV, Epstein-Barr virus, HHV-7, HHV-8), HHV-6 may cause primary and reactivated infections subsequent to latent association with cells.(1) Infection with HHV-6 occurs early in childhood. Most adults (80%-90%) have been infected with this virus.
HHV-6 was first linked with exanthem subitum (roseola infantum) in 1998; since then, the virus has been associated with central nervous system disease almost exclusively in patients who are immunocompromised.(1) HHV-6 is commonly detected in patients posttransplantation. Clinical symptoms associated with this viral infection include febrile illness, pneumonitis, hepatitis, encephalitis, and bone marrow suppression. However, the majority of HHV-6 infections are asymptomatic.(2) The incidence of HHV-7 infection and its clinical manifestations posttransplantation are less well characterized.
HHV-6 is designated as variant A (HHV-6A) or variant B (HH6-B) depending on restriction enzyme digestion patterns and its reaction with monoclonal antibodies. Generally, variant B has been associated with exanthem subitum, whereas variant A has been found in many immunosuppressed patients.(3)
Cautions
The sensitivity of the assay is very dependent upon the quality of the specimen submitted.
A negative test does not exclude human herpesvirus-6 virus infection. Therefore, the results obtained should be used in conjunction with clinical findings to make an accurate diagnosis.
This assay detects nucleic acid and, therefore, cannot distinguish between viable and nonviable virus. Test performance depends on viral load in the specimen and may not correlate with cell culture performed on the same specimen.
Report Available
2 to 5 daysReject Due To
All specimens will be evaluated at Mayo Clinic Laboratories for test suitability.Method Name
Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)/DNA Probe Hybridization
Forms
If not ordering electronically, complete, print, and send a Microbiology Test Request (T244) with the specimen.
Interpretation
A positive result indicates the presence of specific DNA from human herpesvirus-6 (HHV-6) and supports the diagnosis of infection with this virus.
A negative result indicates the absence of detectable DNA from HHV-6 in the specimen, but it does not negate the presence of the virus or active or recent disease.