Norovirus RT-PCR NORWALK

Synonyms

Allscripts (AEHR) Order Name

Norovirus RT-PCR

Sunrise Clinical Manager (SCM) Order Name

Norovirus RT-PCR

Clinical Info

Specimen Type

Stool

Container

Stool Container

Collection Instructions

Cary Blair transport is unacceptable for testing. Test will be cancelled as improperly collected.

Transport Instructions

Frozen

Specimen Stability

4 Days Room Temperature
7 Days Frozen

Methodology

Real-time reverse- transcriptase PCR
Assay Limitations
Detection of norovirus RNA in the stool does not definitively indicate that norovirus is the causative agent of gastrointestinal disease. Asymptomatic shedding of norovirus, especially in immunocompromised patients, has been reported in peer reviewed scientific literature. Results should be used in conjunction with clinical findings, and should not form the sole basis for a diagnosis or treatment decision.

Days Performed

TAT; 2- 4 Days
Noroviruses are a major cause of nonbacterial acute gastroenteritis, accounting for as many as 50% of viral gastroenteritis cases. Symptoms include acute diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, headache, nausea, fatigue, and low-grade fever. Most cases are self-limiting, but complications can occur, particularly in the young, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals. In immunocompromised patients, norovirus infection can cause life-threatening gastroenteritis after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and should always be considered in the differential diagnosis of gut GVHD. Real-time reverse-transcriptase PCR has been shown to be a sensitive, specific method for early assessment of norovirus infections, contributing to positive clinical outcomes.

Performing Laboratory

Viracor Eurofins Clinical Diagnostics

CPT

87798 x 2

PDM

5900095

Result Interpretation

Reference Range: Not Detected

This assay demonstrates no cross-reactivity with other known gastroenteritis pathogens. Genogroup I and Gengroup II assays show slight cross-reactivity with high titers of Norovirus Genogroup IV RNA.

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